The California Entertainment Firearms Permit is a specialized license required for any motion picture, television, video, or theatrical production that involves the use of firearms. The permit framework is codified in Penal Code Sections 29500 through 29515[1].
Who Needs This Permit
Any person or entity that furnishes firearms for use as props in entertainment productions must hold an Entertainment Firearms Permit. This includes:
- Licensed prop houses that supply firearms to productions
- Production companies that maintain their own firearms inventory
- Armorers who handle firearms on set
Individual actors do not need a separate permit, but they may only handle production firearms under the direct supervision of a permitted armorer or prop master.
Application Process
Applications are submitted to the California DOJ Bureau of Firearms[2]. The applicant must:
- Hold a valid Federal Firearms License (FFL) or operate under the supervision of an FFL holder
- Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the DOJ
- Demonstrate adequate insurance coverage for the production activities
- Provide details of the production, including locations and dates of planned firearms use
- Pay the applicable permit fee
Blank Ammunition and Prop Firearms
Productions commonly use blank-firing firearms adapted to cycle without projecting a projectile. Under California law, blank-firing firearms that are capable of being converted to fire live ammunition are treated as firearms and require the permit. Permanently deactivated props or replicas that cannot chamber or fire any type of ammunition may not require a permit, but production companies should consult the DOJ for specific determinations.
Armorer Requirements
The on-set armorer is responsible for all firearms safety during production. The armorer must:
- Maintain physical control of all firearms when not in active use for a scene
- Inspect all firearms and ammunition before each use
- Brief all actors and crew on safety protocols
- Ensure no live ammunition is present on set at any time
- Maintain a detailed log of all firearms used, including serial numbers and scene assignments
Transportation and Storage
Firearms transported to and from production locations must comply with California's general transportation laws. They must be unloaded, in a locked container, and transported separately from ammunition. On set, firearms must be stored in a secured, locked container when not in active use and under the direct supervision of the permitted individual.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Operating without a valid Entertainment Firearms Permit is a misdemeanor under Penal Code Section 29500. Production companies that violate permit conditions may face additional civil penalties and potential revocation of the permit. Local jurisdictions may also require separate filming permits that address firearms use on location.