Parkland mayor warns city preempted from local firearm restrictions as state open-carry law takes effect

Mayor Walker informed the City Commission that a change in state law removing certain local restrictions on open carry takes effect shortly and that Florida law preempts local firearm regulation.

Reading a statement to the commission, Mayor Walker cited statutory preemption and said the city is prohibited from passing or enforcing local firearm regulations that conflict with state law. "Pursuant to section 790.33, the state legislature has preempted the whole field of firearms and ammunition regulation to the state," the mayor said. The mayor added that the statute exposes local officials and the city to fines, civil liability and potential removal from office if they enact or enforce ordinances that violate the preemption.

The mayor listed locations where state restrictions on carrying or exhibiting firearms remain in place, including meetings of governing bodies, schools, polling places and courthouses. He also reminded private property owners that they may prohibit weapons on their premises and advised them to consult an attorney about property-rights questions.

Vice Mayor Israel and other commissioners said they support residents' understanding their legal rights while also urging community norms that reduce the likelihood of public alarm. Vice Mayor Israel said that while the city cannot legislate on firearms, "we're still allowed to advocate," and he asked residents to be mindful of how openly carrying a firearm in community settings such as a farmers market may cause discomfort.

Commissioners emphasized they do not anticipate immediate enforcement issues inside Parkland but urged residents to be respectful of neighbors and private-property rules as the new state law takes effect.