What is the California Entertainment Firearms Permit?
The California Entertainment Firearms Permit is a license issued by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Firearms under California Penal Code Section 29500 et seq.. It authorizes individuals, such as prop masters or armorers, to receive temporary transfers of firearms and blank ammunition from licensed dealers or prop houses for use in entertainment productions, such as film, television, or live performances. The permit ensures compliance with California law for the temporary possession of these items during production.
The permit facilitates:
- Legal transfer of firearms and blank ammunition from a licensed dealer or prop house to the permit holder for entertainment purposes.
- Temporary possession of such firearms and ammunition for the duration of the production, as authorized by Penal Code Section 29505.
Two Examples of How the Permit is Used
- Transfer for Film Production
Scenario: A Los Angeles film production requires blank-firing handguns for a robbery scene.
Use of the Permit: The prop master, holding a California Entertainment Firearms Permit, uses the permit to receive a temporary transfer of blank-firing handguns and blank ammunition from a licensed prop house, as authorized by Penal Code Section 26500. The permit allows the prop master to legally possess the firearms and blanks during filming. After production, the prop master returns the items to the prop house and maintains transfer records for DOJ compliance.
- Transfer for Television Series
Scenario: A San Francisco TV series needs prop firearms for a scene depicting a SWAT operation.
Use of the Permit: The armorer, with a California Entertainment Firearms Permit, coordinates with a licensed firearms dealer to receive a temporary transfer of prop firearms incapable of firing live ammunition, per Penal Code Section 29505. The permit authorizes possession of the props and blank ammunition during filming. The armorer returns the items post-production, documenting the transfer as required by the DOJ.
Who Can Obtain the California Entertainment Firearms Permit?
Eligibility under Penal Code Section 29510 and the DOJ application form (BOF 103) includes:
- Age and Background:
- Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
- They must pass a DOJ background check, ensuring no disqualifying convictions (e.g., felonies or domestic violence) under Penal Code Section 29800 or 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).
- Employment/Affiliation:
- Applicants must provide employment details, typically indicating affiliation with a production company or prop house, as required by Form BOF 103 (Section 3: Employer Information).
How to Obtain the California Entertainment Firearms Permit
The process, as outlined in Penal Code Section 29515 and Form BOF 103, includes:
- Submit Application:
- Complete the Entertainment Firearms Permit Application (Form BOF 103), providing:
- Personal information (name, address, date of birth).
- Employment details (production company or prop house).
- Submit the form to the DOJ Bureau of Firearms with a $104 initial fee ($100 application + $4 fingerprint processing, per the form).
- Undergo Background Check:
- Submit fingerprints via Live Scan for a DOJ background check to verify eligibility.
- Receive Permit:
- Upon approval, the DOJ issues the permit, valid for 5 years, renewable for $79 (Penal Code Section 29520).
- The permit authorizes temporary possession of transferred firearms and blanks for entertainment productions.
- Maintain Compliance:
- Renew the permit as required and comply with DOJ regulations for transfers.
How is the California Entertainment Firearms Permit Used?
The permit is used to ensure compliance with California law for firearm transfers:
- Authorizing Transfers:
- Permits the temporary transfer of firearms and blanks from licensed dealers or prop houses to the permit holder, per Penal Code Section 29505.
- Temporary Possession:
- Allows the permit holder to possess the transferred firearms and blanks during production, as authorized by Penal Code Section 29530.
- Coordination with Authorities:
- Requires notification to local law enforcement for transfers involving public filming locations, per DOJ guidelines.
- Record-Keeping:
- Permit holders maintain records of all transfers, including firearm and ammunition details, for DOJ inspection.
For example, an armorer uses the permit to receive blank-firing pistols from a dealer for a TV show, possesses them during filming, and returns them afterward, documenting the transfer for DOJ compliance.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. California firearm laws and permitting requirements are complex and subject to change. Individuals seeking an Entertainment Firearms Permit should consult a qualified legal professional to ensure compliance with all applicable laws. The Davis Law Firm is not responsible for any actions taken based on this information without proper legal consultation.
Call to Action
For expert legal guidance on obtaining a California Entertainment Firearms Permit, contact The Davis Law Firm at 866-545-4867 or via e-mail at [email protected].
