N.J.S.A. 2C:58-4.6 | Statute current as of September 10, 2025 | Guide updated June 2026
Each section below covers: Plain English summary · Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Familiarize yourself with these prohibited areas to ensure compliance with the law. This article provides an overview and important information regarding these locations.
⚠️ Active Litigation Warning
Koons & Siegel v. Platkin — En banc arguments were heard before the full Third Circuit Court of Appeals on February 11, 2026, and a decision is pending. The September 10, 2025 panel opinion was vacated when en banc rehearing was granted on December 11, 2025. Several provisions on this page remain subject to injunctions and may change when the en banc decision is issued.
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⚠️ Warning
For general educational purposes only; this guide does not constitute legal advice.
This guide is current as of June 2026. Pending litigation or legislative changes may render it obsolete at any time, without notice.
You are solely responsible for verifying current law and for any decisions you make about when or where to carry.
How to Use This Page
Read Section (A) once, then scan Prohibited Places (1)–(25), then focus especially on Vehicle Rules, Parking Lot Safe Harbor, Public Right-of-Way, and Places Where Carry Is Permitted.
Statutory Language — N.J.S.A. 2C:58-4.6(a)
“…it shall be a crime of the third degree for any person, other than a person lawfully carrying a firearm within the authorized scope of an exemption set forth in N.J.S. 2C:39-6, to knowingly carry a firearm…and a crime of the second degree to knowingly possess a destructive device…in any of the following places, including in or upon any part of the buildings, grounds, or parking area of:”
Plain English
Carrying a firearm into any prohibited place listed below is a third-degree crime (3–5 years in state prison, up to $15,000 fine). Possessing a destructive device (explosives, etc.) in a prohibited place is a second-degree crime (5–10 years). These penalties apply to the building itself, its surrounding grounds, and any associated parking areas. The statute provides a narrow exception for brief, incidental entry, treated as a minor (de minimis) infraction, as well as specific exceptions for parking lots.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Knowingly” is the key word — the prosecution must prove you knew or should have known you were in a prohibited place. Accidental or unknowing entry could be a defense, but do not rely on it.
Exemptions under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6 (your home, your place of business, law enforcement, military, licensed security, etc.) are specific and narrow. A standard carry permit holder is not automatically exempt from the sensitive places list.
“De minimis” brief incidental entry is mentioned in the statute but never defined — how brief is brief? Whether you are walking through vs. lingering in a prohibited area is a judgment call a court would have to make.
Parking areas are included. Even driving through the parking lot of a prohibited place with a firearm can potentially trigger a violation.
⚠️ Warning
This guide is current as of June 2026. Pending litigation or legislative changes may render it obsolete at any time and without notice. This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Statutory Language — §(a)(1)
“a place owned, leased, or under the control of State, county or municipal government used for the purpose of government administration, including but not limited to police stations”
Plain English
No firearms in any government office building — town halls, county administration buildings, DMV offices, police stations, municipal courts, and similar facilities. This covers any building the government owns, rents, or controls for administrative purposes.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Including but not limited to” means the list is open-ended. Any place a government uses for administration qualifies, even if not traditionally thought of as a government building.
Shared-use buildings are a grey area. If one floor is a government office and another is a private business, whether the entire building qualifies is not defined by statute.
Post offices and other federal buildings are separately covered under federal law (18 U.S.C. §930), regardless of this statute.
Statutory Language — §(a)(2)
“a courthouse, courtroom, or any other premises used to conduct judicial or court administrative proceedings or functions”
Plain English
No firearms in any courthouse, courtroom, or building used for court business — including judges’ chambers, clerk’s offices, probation offices, hallways, elevators, lobbies, parking garages, and any other space tied to court functions.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Some municipal courts operate out of shared buildings (community centers, municipal buildings). When court is in session, the entire premises may qualify as prohibited.
Lawyers’ offices are generally not included unless they are located inside a courthouse complex.
Statutory Language — § (a)(3)
“a State, county, or municipal correctional or juvenile justice facility, jail and any other place maintained by or for a governmental entity for the detention of criminal suspects or offenders”
Plain English
No firearms in any jail, prison, juvenile detention center, or any facility where people are held in government custody.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Statutory Language — §(a)(4)
“a State-contracted half-way house”
Plain English
No firearms at halfway houses operating under a state contract. These are transitional housing facilities for individuals coming out of incarceration.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Only state-contracted facilities are specified. Privately-run transitional housing without a state contract may not be covered under this subsection, though it may be covered under other subsections such as residential facilities.
These facilities are often located in residential neighborhoods and may not be clearly marked.
Statutory Language — §(a)(5)
“a location being used as a polling place during the conduct of an election and places used for the storage or tabulation of ballots”
Plain English
No firearms at any location being used for voting while an election is taking place, and no firearms at ballot storage or counting facilities at any time.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
The polling place prohibition is time-limited — a school gym, for example, is only prohibited as a polling place on Election Day when polls are open. Note that a school gym is already prohibited as a school at all times under §(a)(7).
Ballot storage and tabulation sites carry no time limitation — they are prohibited whenever ballots are stored or counted there.
Early voting locations and mail-in ballot processing centers also qualify.
Statutory Language — §(a)(6)
“within 100 feet of a place where a public gathering, demonstration or event is held for which a government permit is required, during the conduct of such gathering, demonstration or event”
Plain English
No firearms within 100 feet of any event that required a government permit — parades, protests, street fairs, festivals, block parties, etc. — but only while the event is actually taking place.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Under Court Review — This provision was upheld by the three-judge panel in September 2025, but that decision was vacated when en banc rehearing was granted. Status is uncertain pending the en banc decision.
100 feet is very difficult to judge in practice — roughly 10 car lengths or the distance from home plate to first base.
There is no practical way for a permit holder to verify in real time whether a given event required a government permit.
Street festivals and block parties can sprawl over large areas. The 100-foot buffer extends from any edge of the event, potentially covering entire neighborhoods.
If you are on a public sidewalk and a permitted march passes within 100 feet of you, you may suddenly be in violation.
Statutory Language — §(a)(7)
“a school, college, university or other educational institution, and on any school bus”
Plain English
No firearms at any educational institution from kindergarten through graduate school — including buildings, grounds, parking areas, and any school bus. This also covers trade schools, vocational schools, and similar institutions.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This is one of the most broadly supported prohibitions and was upheld even by the most skeptical judges.
“Other educational institution” is open-ended and could include tutoring centers, driving schools, or training academies.
School buses are covered wherever they are, not just on school grounds.
Off-campus school events (field trips, off-site sports) are a grey area under this subsection but may be covered under §(a)(11) — Youth Sports Events.
Independent prohibition — N.J.S.A. 2C:39-5(e): This separate statute prohibits possession of a firearm on school grounds regardless of carry permit status. Compliance with §(a)(7) does not ensure compliance with 2C:39-5(e), and vice versa. Any person who knowingly possesses a firearm in or upon any part of the buildings or grounds of any school, college, university, or other educational institution is guilty of a third-degree crime — irrespective of whether they hold a valid carry permit or firearms purchaser identification card. The only exception is written authorization from the governing officer of the institution. This exception applies regardless of the parking lot safe harbor or any carry permit held.
Statutory Language — §(a)(8)
“a child care facility, including a day care center”
Plain English
No firearms at any child care facility or day care center.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Child care facility” is broader than formal day care and may include in-home operations, after-school programs, and similar arrangements.
If a child care operation is run out of a private home, the areas of the home used for child care likely become a prohibited place during operating hours.
Statutory Language — §(a)(9)
“a nursery school, pre-school, zoo, or summer camp”
Plain English
No firearms at nursery schools, pre-schools, zoos, or summer camps.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Zoos are included regardless of whether they are public or private.
“Summer camp” is not defined and is likely interpreted broadly to include sports camps, day camps at a church, or similar programs.
Some zoos are located inside larger parks. The zoo prohibition is clear, but the surrounding park falls under §(a)(10), which is currently under court review.
Statutory Language — §(a)(10)
“a park, beach, recreation facility or area or playground owned or controlled by a State, county or local government unit, or any part of such a place, which is designated as a gun-free zone by the governing authority based on considerations of public safety”
Plain English
No firearms in government-owned parks, beaches, recreation areas, or playgrounds — but only if the governing authority has specifically designated the area as a gun-free zone based on public safety considerations.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Under Court Review — Upheld by the three-judge panel in September 2025, but that decision was vacated and is pending en banc review.
The local government must affirmatively designate the area as gun-free. Without that designation, carry may be permitted.
The “based on considerations of public safety” qualifier could be challenged if a municipality rubber-stamps designations without genuine safety analysis.
A playground attached to a school is prohibited under §(a)(7) regardless of any gun-free zone designation.
Walking trails, boat launches, and fishing piers are all potentially covered if the park is designated as a gun-free zone.
Statutory Language — §(a)(11)
“youth sports events, as defined in N.J.S. 5:17-1, during and immediately preceding and following the conduct of the event, except that this provision shall not apply to participants of a youth sports event which is a firearm shooting competition…”
Plain English
No firearms at youth sports events, including the time immediately before and after the event. Exception: if the youth sports event is a firearm shooting competition, participants may have their firearms.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Immediately preceding and following” is vague — the statute does not define how long before or after the event the prohibition applies.
This applies wherever the event is held. A youth soccer game on a private field triggers this provision, not just events on public property.
Parents picking up or dropping off children at youth sports events with a firearm in their vehicle are likely in violation.
The shooting competition exception is narrow and references a specific statute. This was a point of significant judicial questioning at the en banc hearing, particularly regarding off-campus school sports events.
Statutory Language — §(a)(12)
“a publicly owned or leased library or museum”
Plain English
No firearms in libraries or museums that are publicly owned or leased by the government.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Only publicly owned or leased facilities are prohibited under this subsection. A privately owned museum or library is not covered here, but may be covered under §(a)(17) or private property rules.
Many public libraries technically run by independent nonprofit boards but occupying publicly-owned buildings still qualify.
Temporary museum exhibitions in government-leased spaces may also qualify.
Statutory Language — §(a)(13)
“a shelter for the homeless, emergency shelter for the homeless, basic center shelter program, shelter for homeless or runaway youth, children’s shelter, child care shelter, shelter for victims of domestic violence, or any shelter licensed by or under the control of the Juvenile Justice Commission or the Department of Children and Families”
Plain English
No firearms at any type of shelter — homeless shelters, emergency shelters, youth shelters, children’s shelters, domestic violence shelters, or any shelter under state juvenile justice or child welfare oversight.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This is an extremely broad category covering nearly every type of residential shelter.
Many shelters are not easily identified and are deliberately kept low-profile.
Faith-based and privately-run shelters are covered if they fall under any of these categories or are licensed by the relevant state departments.
Statutory Language — §(a)(14)
“a community residence for persons with developmental disabilities, head injuries, or terminal illnesses, or any other residential setting licensed by the Department of Human Services or Department of Health”
Plain English
No firearms at group homes or community residences serving people with developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, or terminal illnesses. No firearms at any residential facility licensed by the NJ Department of Human Services or Department of Health.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Any other residential setting licensed by” these departments is a broad catch-all that could include assisted living facilities, mental health group homes, and addiction recovery residences.
These facilities are often located in regular residential neighborhoods and may be difficult to identify.
Statutory Language — §(a)(15)
“a bar or restaurant where alcohol is served, and any other site or facility where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises”
Plain English
No firearms at any bar, restaurant, or other establishment where alcohol is served for on-premises consumption — including breweries with taprooms, wineries with tasting rooms, and any venue with a liquor license for on-site consumption.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Under Court Review — Upheld by the three-judge panel but vacated and pending en banc review.
This is a near-total ban on carry at restaurants since the vast majority of sit-down restaurants in NJ serve alcohol. It does not distinguish between a bar and a family restaurant that happens to serve wine — both are equally prohibited.
A restaurant that does not serve alcohol (no liquor license) is not covered under this subsection.
BYOB restaurants are a significant grey area. The statute says “restaurant where alcohol is served.” Once a patron begins serving alcohol at the table — even without staff involvement — the element may be fulfilled. The first half of this subsection says nothing about consumption; it is not about inebriation or fitness to carry. It is a location-based restriction.
Simply not drinking, or not drinking enough to be impaired, does not remove the prohibition if alcohol is being served on the premises.
Catered events with alcohol service could trigger this provision at otherwise-legal venues.
Statutory Language — §(a)(16)
“a Class 5 Cannabis retailer or medical cannabis dispensary, including any consumption areas licensed or permitted by the Cannabis Regulatory Commission…”
Plain English
No firearms at marijuana dispensaries (recreational or medical) or any licensed cannabis consumption areas.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This intersects with federal law. Cannabis remains federally illegal, and 18 U.S.C. §922(g)(3) independently prohibits firearms possession by unlawful users of controlled substances.
Proposed federal regulatory changes to create a medical marijuana exemption have not been formally adopted.
The statute covers the facility itself — but even proximity to a dispensary with a firearm could raise questions.
Statutory Language — §(a)(17)
“a privately or publicly owned and operated entertainment facility within this State, including but not limited to a theater, stadium, museum, arena, racetrack or other place where performances, concerts, exhibits, games or contests are held”
Plain English
No firearms at any entertainment venue — movie theaters, stadiums, arenas, racetracks, concert halls, comedy clubs, or any place where performances, exhibits, games, or contests are held. This covers both public and private facilities.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Under Court Review — Upheld by the three-judge panel but vacated and pending en banc review.
“Including but not limited to” makes this extremely broad. A small comedy club, outdoor concert series, community theater, or escape room could qualify.
Museums appear here and in §(a)(12). Private museums not covered by §(a)(12) are captured here.
Sporting events at these venues create an overlap with §(a)(11) — Youth Sports Events.
A restaurant with live music could potentially qualify as an entertainment facility.
Statutory Language — §(a)(18)
“a casino and related facilities, including but not limited to appurtenant hotels, retail premises, restaurant and bar facilities, and entertainment and recreational venues located within the casino property”
Plain English
No firearms anywhere on a casino property — the casino floor, attached hotel, shops, restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and anything else within the casino complex.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Under Court Review — Upheld by the three-judge panel but vacated and pending en banc review.
This is a complete property-wide ban. Staying at a casino hotel means no firearm anywhere on the premises, including your hotel room.
Atlantic City casinos are sprawling complexes — the prohibited zone covers a very large area.
Casino parking garages are included. Casino marinas may also qualify as a recreational venue.
Casinos independently declare themselves gun-free zones through their own policies. Even if you were compliant with a statutory exception, you could still be considered trespassing.
Statutory Language — §(a)(19)
“a plant or operation that produces, converts, distributes or stores energy or converts one form of energy to another”
Plain English
No firearms at power plants, electrical substations, energy storage facilities, solar farms, wind farms, natural gas facilities, or any other energy production or distribution operation.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This is very broadly worded. Gas stations arguably “distribute” energy, though this provision is likely intended for industrial-scale facilities.
EV charging stations may also fall within the prohibition.
Many of these facilities are in remote or industrial areas and may not be obviously identifiable.
Statutory Language — §(a)(20)
“an airport or public transportation hub”
Plain English
No firearms at airports or public transportation hubs — train stations, bus terminals, and transit centers.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Court Clarification: The Third Circuit affirmed the injunction for private vehicles — carry permit holders may carry loaded and holstered in their own private vehicle. However, the court reversed the injunction for public transit. Public transit remains a prohibited place.
Federal law (49 U.S.C. §46505) already prohibits firearms past TSA checkpoints. This state law extends the ban to the entire airport property — including ticketing areas, baggage claim, and curbside.
Dropping off or picking up someone at airport curbside with a firearm in your vehicle is a grey area. The vehicle injunction may protect you, but exercise extreme caution.
NJ Transit stations, PATH stations, and bus stops all qualify as public transportation hubs.
Park-and-ride lots at transit stations are part of the hub and are prohibited, though you may store your firearm per the parking lot safe harbor provisions in §(c).
Statutory Language — §(a)(21)
“a health care facility, including but not limited to a general hospital, special hospital, psychiatric hospital, public health center, diagnostic center, treatment center, rehabilitation center, extended care facility, skilled nursing home, nursing home, intermediate care facility, tuberculosis hospital, chronic disease hospital, maternity hospital, outpatient clinic, dispensary, assisted living center, home health care agency, residential treatment facility, residential health care facility, medical office, or ambulatory care facility”
Plain English
No firearms at virtually any health care facility — hospitals, doctors’ offices, urgent care centers, nursing homes, rehab centers, psychiatric hospitals, outpatient clinics, assisted living centers, and more. The list is extensive and ends with the catch-all “ambulatory care facility.”
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
“Medical office” is extremely broad — covering doctors, dentists, chiropractors, physical therapists, and any medical practice.
A home health aide visiting your home does not turn your home into a prohibited place, but the agency’s office is prohibited.
Standalone pharmacies could be considered a “dispensary” under the statute.
Veterinary offices are not listed and are likely not covered.
Statutory Language — §(a)(22)
“a facility licensed or regulated by the Department of Human Services, Department of Children and Families, or Department of Health, other than a health care facility, that provides addiction or mental health treatment or support services”
Plain English
No firearms at addiction treatment centers, mental health facilities, or support service providers licensed by the relevant state departments — not already covered as healthcare facilities under §(a)(21).
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This is a catch-all for treatment and support facilities not captured by §(a)(21) — including outpatient counseling centers, AA/NA meeting locations operated by a licensed facility, and sober living homes.
Peer recovery support centers and crisis stabilization units would qualify.
Privately-run support groups meeting in churches or community centers are likely not covered unless the hosting organization itself is licensed by the listed departments.
Statutory Language — §(a)(23)
“a public location being used for making motion picture or television images for theatrical, commercial or educational purposes, during the time such location is being used for that purpose”
Plain English
No firearms at any public location while it is actively being used for film or TV production. This applies only during actual production — not before or after.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Time-limited — applies only while filming is occurring and only at public locations. A private studio or sound stage is not covered under this subsection, though it may be covered as private property.
NJ has an active film industry, particularly in Newark, Jersey City, and shore areas. Production crews can set up in public spaces with permits.
There may not be obvious signage indicating that a public space is being used for production.
Statutory Language — §(a)(24)
“private property, including but not limited to residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, institutional or undeveloped property, unless the owner has provided express consent or has posted a sign indicating that it is permissible to carry on the premises a concealed handgun with a valid and lawfully issued permit…”
Plain English
As written: You cannot carry on private property unless the owner specifically posts a sign permitting firearms or gives you express consent.
As currently enforced: The Third Circuit affirmed the injunction against this provision as applied to private property open to the public. You may carry on private property that is open to the public — stores, malls, restaurants that don’t serve alcohol — unless the owner posts a “No Firearms” sign.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Critical Distinction — The “Vampire Rule”: The injunction only applies to property held open to the public. Private property NOT open to the public (a private home, a private office, a members-only club) still falls under the statute’s prohibition. You cannot carry unless the owner consents.
For businesses open to the public: if there is no sign prohibiting firearms, carry is permitted. If there is a “No Firearms” sign, carry is prohibited.
For private residences and non-public property, express permission from the owner is required. Who qualifies as the owner, particularly with respect to leased property or property held by an LLC, trust, or other entity, is a grey area.
What constitutes express consent is also not defined. Verbal permission may be enough, but the statute does not specify whether consent must be written.
What qualifies as a proper “No Firearms” sign is likewise not defined. The statute does not specify sign size, placement, wording, or visibility requirements.
This remains one of the most heavily litigated provisions and could change significantly depending on future court rulings.
Statutory Language — §(a)(25)
“any other place in which the carrying of a firearm is prohibited by statute or rule or regulation promulgated by a federal or State agency”
Plain English
No firearms in any other place where federal or state law or regulations prohibit them. This is a catch-all that incorporates every other firearms prohibition on the books.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This means you must know not just this statute, but all other applicable federal and state firearms restrictions.
Federal prohibitions include post offices, VA facilities, federal courthouses, military bases, Indian reservations, national park buildings, and more.
State agency regulations can change without legislative action — an agency could promulgate new rules adding prohibited places at any time, creating a moving target.
The full list of prohibited places is not contained in any single document.
Statutory Language — §(b)(1)
“A person…who is otherwise authorized under the law to carry or transport a firearm shall not do so while in a vehicle in New Jersey, unless the handgun is unloaded and contained in a closed and securely fastened case, gunbox, or locked unloaded in the trunk of the vehicle.”
Plain English
As written: Even with a New Jersey carry permit, when in a vehicle you must have the firearm unloaded and in a locked case or in the trunk.
As currently enforced: The Third Circuit affirmed the injunction against this provision for private vehicles. NJ carry permit holders may carry loaded, concealed, and holstered in their private vehicle.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
The injunction applies to private vehicles only. Public transit vehicles remain prohibited.
“Holstered” is the practical standard — carried in a holster on your person.
If you leave the vehicle and enter a prohibited place, you must secure the firearm per the parking lot rules in §(c).
Passengers: A non-permit-holding passenger in your vehicle could potentially be deemed in “constructive possession” of your firearm. This is a risk if you are pulled over.
Statutory Language — §(b)(2)
“A holder of a valid and lawfully issued permit to carry a handgun shall not leave a handgun outside of their immediate possession or control within a parked vehicle, unless the handgun is unloaded and contained in a closed and securely fastened case, or gunbox, and is not visible from outside of the vehicle, or is locked unloaded in the trunk or storage area of the vehicle.”
Plain English
If you leave your firearm in a parked vehicle, it must be either: (a) unloaded, in a locked case, and not visible from outside the vehicle, or (b) unloaded and locked in the trunk or storage area. You cannot leave a loaded firearm in a parked car — including in a glove box or center console.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This provision applies when you are not in the vehicle.
“Immediate possession or control” is ambiguous — best practice is to secure the firearm before leaving the vehicle entirely. A lockbox bolted inside the vehicle is the safest approach.
The firearm must not be visible from outside the vehicle.
This exemption protects you against the sensitive places statute, but if a facility’s anti-gun policy extends to its entire property or parking area, you could still be considered trespassing regardless of statutory compliance.
⚠️ Warning
This guide is current as of June 2026. Pending litigation or legislative changes may render it obsolete at any time and without notice. This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Statutory Language — §(c)(1)–(4)
Permit holders who would otherwise be prohibited from carrying into a location listed in §(a) are permitted to:
Transport a concealed, unloaded handgun in a case, gunbox, or trunk into or out of the parking area.
Store a handgun in a locked lockbox, out of plain view, inside the vehicle.
Carry concealed in the immediate area around the vehicle only to store or retrieve the handgun from a lockbox or trunk.
Transport the handgun between the vehicle and a non-prohibited destination — provided they immediately leave the parking lot and do not enter the prohibited place.
Plain English
You may drive into the parking lot of a prohibited place, unload your firearm, secure it in a locked box out of plain view, and leave your vehicle. When you return, you may retrieve it. You may also briefly carry concealed between your vehicle and a non-prohibited area (such as a public sidewalk), but you must leave the parking lot immediately and may not enter the prohibited building.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
The firearm must be unloaded when stored in a prohibited location’s parking lot.
You need an actual lockbox — a glove compartment or center console does not qualify.
“Immediate area surrounding their vehicle” is vague — stay as close to your vehicle as possible when storing or retrieving your firearm.
The transition between carrying loaded and holstered in your vehicle (permitted under the injunction) and storing it unloaded in a locked case for a prohibited parking lot is a critical moment. Plan ahead — do not wait until you are already parked to begin securing your firearm.
Every step of this process has specific requirements. Failing to follow any one of them could expose you to liability.
Statutory Language — §(d)
“The holder of a valid and lawfully issued permit…shall not be in violation of subsection (a) of this section while the holder is traveling along a public right-of-way that touches or crosses any of the places enumerated in subsection (a)…”
Plain English
If you are walking or driving along a public sidewalk, street, or roadway that passes by, touches, or crosses a prohibited area, you are not in violation as long as you are traveling through. You do not have to disarm every time you walk past a school or drive near a government building.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
This is a critical protection — without it, carry would be virtually impossible in urban areas where prohibited places are concentrated.
“Traveling along” suggests continuous movement. Stopping and lingering on a sidewalk adjacent to a prohibited place could erode this protection.
This provision does not protect you if you leave the right-of-way and enter the prohibited place’s property.
Sidewalks, streets, and roads are clearly covered. Shared-use paths (walking/biking trails) are a grey area — if the path is a dedicated public right-of-way, you may be protected; if it runs through park property, casino property, a beach, a boardwalk, or an entertainment facility, you may not be.
Statutory Language — §(e)(1)–(2)
Permit holders authorized in writing to provide security at a prohibited place may carry there. Owners or entities responsible for security at prohibited places may allow or prohibit retired law enforcement officers (under LEOSA or N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6(l)) from carrying concealed on the premises.
Plain English
If you are hired to provide security at a prohibited location and have written authorization, you may carry there. Retired law enforcement officers with LEOSA credentials may carry at prohibited places only if the facility’s owner or security entity permits it.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Authorization must be in writing. Verbal authorization is not sufficient.
Retired LEO carry is at the discretion of the facility owner — it is not automatic.
LEOSA (the federal Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act) provides retired LEOs certain carry rights, but New Jersey may layer additional restrictions at specific locations.
Statutory Language — §(f)
An employee of an armored car company with a valid carry permit who is contractually authorized to provide services at a prohibited place may carry openly in the regular course of employment.
Plain English
Armored car employees with carry permits may carry openly — not concealed — at prohibited places while on the job, provided their employer holds a contract to serve that location.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
Carry must be open, not concealed.
Permitted only during the regular course of employment — not on breaks or personal errands.
Must have both a valid carry permit and contractual authorization from the employer.
The commute to and from work typically does not fall within the regular course of employment — a common violation among armored car employees.
Statutory Language — §(g)
“Nothing in this section prohibits carrying or transporting a firearm in accordance with subsections (e) and (f) of N.J.S. 2C:39-6 or where otherwise expressly authorized by law.”
Plain English
This preserves existing transport exemptions under other NJ laws — such as transporting a firearm directly between your home and a range, gunsmith, or place of purchase.
Grey Areas & Pitfalls
N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6(e) covers transport between home, range, gunsmith, and similar direct trips.
N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6(f) covers transport related to moving, hunting, and similar activities.
Under both exemptions, the firearm must be unloaded and contained in a closed and fastened case, gunbox, securely tied package, or locked in the trunk.
The course of travel may include only deviations that are reasonably necessary under the circumstances.
⚠️ Warning
This guide is current as of June 2026. Pending litigation or legislative changes may render it obsolete at any time and without notice. This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
The statute defines where carry is prohibited. By inference, any place not listed in §2C:58-4.6(a)(1)–(25) — and not otherwise prohibited by federal law or other state statute — is a place where a valid NJ carry permit holder may lawfully carry concealed. The following is a non-exhaustive guide to permitted locations, including grey areas and practical caveats.
The Third Circuit affirmed the injunction against the default private property ban as to private property held open to the public. You may carry concealed in retail stores, shopping malls, office buildings, private gyms, grocery stores, gas stations, auto dealerships, dry cleaners, salons, banks, hotels, and any other private business open to the public — unless the owner posts a sign prohibiting firearms or directly communicates a prohibition.
Grey Areas & Caveats
The injunction covers only property “held open to the public.” Private offices not open to walk-in visitors, private clubs, and invitation-only venues may not be protected.
If you see a “No Firearms” sign, you must comply. Carrying past a posted sign is a criminal violation.
The en banc court could modify or reverse this injunction.
Some businesses have “no weapons” policies in employee handbooks that apply to employees but not customers — know which capacity you are entering in.
Watch for hard-to-spot signage on inner doors or at registers.
Businesses that serve alcohol — even a wine bar inside a grocery store — may trigger the §(a)(15) prohibition for that portion of the premises.
The Third Circuit affirmed the injunction against the vehicle prohibition for private vehicles. Permit holders may carry loaded and holstered in their own private vehicles — personal cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, and other privately owned motor vehicles.
Grey Areas & Caveats
Public transit is a prohibited place. The Third Circuit reversed the injunction on that point. Buses, trains (NJ Transit, PATH), light rail, and ride-share vehicles (Uber/Lyft) where you are a passenger are not covered.
Rental cars are a grey area — they are private vehicles for your use but owned by a third party. Company vehicles may also be ambiguous depending on employer policies.
When parked at a prohibited location, the parking lot safe harbor rules under §(c) apply — the firearm must be unloaded, cased, and out of plain view.
The en banc court could modify this injunction.
Section (d) explicitly protects permit holders traveling along any public right-of-way that touches or crosses a prohibited place. You may walk on a public sidewalk past a school, along a road that borders a park, or drive on a highway past a government building without violating the statute — as long as you remain on the right-of-way and do not enter the prohibited place’s property.
Grey Areas & Caveats
The key word is “traveling.” Stopping and lingering on a sidewalk adjacent to a prohibited place could be interpreted as entering the prohibited place.
Shared-use paths (walking/biking trails) running through parks may be considered part of the park, not a public right-of-way.
Sidewalks technically on school or government property (rather than a public easement) could be problematic.
If a public sidewalk passes within 100 feet of a permitted public gathering (§(a)(6)), the interaction between §(d) and §(a)(6) is untested.
You may possess and carry firearms in your own home, your own place of business, land owned or possessed by you, and on other people’s private residential property with the owner’s consent. No carry permit is required to possess a firearm in your own home or place of business. Section §(a)(24) explicitly preserves this authority.
N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6(e) provides:
“Nothing in subsections b., c., and d. of N.J.S. 2C:39-5 shall be construed to prevent a person keeping or carrying about the person’s place of business, residence, premises or other land owned or possessed by the person, any firearm, or from carrying the same…from any place of purchase to the person’s residence or place of business, between the person’s dwelling and place of business, between one place of business or residence and another when moving, or between the person’s dwelling or place of business and place where the firearms are repaired, for the purpose of repair. For the purposes of this section, a place of business shall be deemed to be a fixed location.”
Any firearm transported under this exemption must be unloaded and contained in a closed and fastened case, gunbox, securely tied package, or locked in the trunk, with only deviations that are reasonably necessary under the circumstances.
Grey Areas & Caveats
Common areas of condos and apartment complexes (lobbies, hallways, pools, parking garages) are grey areas — these are shared spaces controlled by an HOA or management company, not your individual unit. A landlord or HOA could post a “no firearms” sign in common areas.
Visiting someone else’s home requires that resident’s consent. A roommate’s consent may not be sufficient if they are not the property owner.
Airbnb/VRBO rentals are ambiguous — you are a guest, not an owner.
A place of business must be owned by you and is deemed a fixed location.
At prohibited sensitive place locations, permit holders may: (1) drive into or out of the parking lot with the firearm unloaded and cased or locked in the trunk; (2) store the firearm in a locked lockbox out of plain view in the parked vehicle; (3) move the firearm in the immediate area of the vehicle for lockbox storage or retrieval; and (4) transport a concealed handgun between the vehicle and a non-prohibited destination while immediately leaving the parking area.
Grey Areas & Caveats
The firearm must be unloaded and cased or locked. You cannot simply holster it while in the parking lot.
“Immediately leaving” is not defined — lingering in your vehicle with a loaded firearm at a prohibited location’s parking lot is legally risky.
“Immediate area surrounding their vehicle” is vague — stay as close to your vehicle as possible when storing or retrieving your firearm.
Parking garages attached to prohibited buildings (e.g., hospital parking decks) may be considered part of the prohibited premises, not merely a parking area.
Educational facilities and school property carry independent prohibitions not necessarily covered by this safe harbor.
Houses of worship are not listed anywhere in §2C:58-4.6(a)(1)–(25). As private property open to the public, they fall under the §(a)(24) injunction — carry is permitted unless the house of worship posts a sign or communicates a prohibition.
Grey Areas & Caveats
If the property also operates a school (§(a)(7)), daycare (§(a)(8)), or nursery (§(a)(9)), those portions are prohibited during those functions.
If the house of worship hosts a permitted public event (§(a)(6)), the 100-foot buffer may apply.
Some houses of worship also serve as shelters (§(a)(13)), which would trigger a prohibition.
If the facility is located within a government-owned building, government property rules under §(a)(1) may apply instead.
Always check for a posted firearms policy before entering.
Section §(a)(15) prohibits carry only at bars or restaurants where alcohol is served. Restaurants that do not serve alcohol — fast food, pizza shops, diners without a liquor license, delis, cafes, food courts, and takeout establishments — are not prohibited places and fall under the §(a)(24) injunction framework.
Grey Areas & Caveats
Verify that the restaurant does not have a liquor license. Many restaurants that don’t prominently feature a bar still serve beer, wine, or cocktails.
BYOB restaurants are a grey area — if the restaurant itself does not serve or pour alcohol, §(a)(15) may not apply, but this is untested.
Food courts inside malls are generally fine, but if a vendor holds a liquor license, the area near that vendor could be problematic.
Restaurants inside prohibited locations (a hospital cafeteria, a casino restaurant) remain prohibited regardless of alcohol status.
Private farmland, hunting land, shooting ranges, and other private outdoor property are permitted for carry. Section §(a)(10) only restricts carry in parks, beaches, and recreation areas owned or controlled by a state, county, or local government unit. Privately owned outdoor spaces are not covered. Transport to and from ranges and hunting areas is also protected under N.J.S.A. 2C:39-6(e) and (f).
Grey Areas & Caveats
If private land is adjacent to a school, park, or other prohibited area, be mindful of boundary lines.
A private range that hosts youth sporting events (§(a)(11)) could temporarily become prohibited during those events.
Hunting on state-owned Wildlife Management Areas is governed by separate Fish & Game regulations, not just this statute.
Always have the property owner’s express permission when carrying on someone else’s private land.
Section §(a)(12) only prohibits carry at publicly owned or leased libraries and museums. A privately owned art gallery, private museum, or private event space is not covered by §(a)(12) and falls under private property rules — permitted unless the owner posts a prohibition.
Grey Areas & Caveats
Section §(a)(17) separately prohibits carry at any privately or publicly owned entertainment facility — including any place where “performances, concerts, exhibits, games or contests are held.” A private museum hosting exhibits could qualify as an entertainment facility under §(a)(17) even if not covered by §(a)(12).
A small private art gallery that does not host events is likely fine. A large private museum hosting exhibits is considerably riskier.
Private event venues (banquet halls, wedding venues) that host performances or contests may also fall under §(a)(17).
This is a significant grey area. Err on the side of caution.
Private commercial offices, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, construction sites, and other private workplaces are not listed as prohibited places. As private property open to the public, carry is permitted under the §(a)(24) injunction unless the property owner posts a sign or policy prohibiting firearms.
Grey Areas & Caveats
Your employer may have a workplace policy prohibiting firearms. While not a criminal violation under this statute, it could result in termination.
Multi-tenant office buildings may have building-wide “no firearms” policies posted by building management.
If your workplace is in a government building (§(a)(1)), leases government space, or is co-located with a prohibited facility, the prohibited place rules may override.
Mixed-use buildings with a medical office (§(a)(21)) or daycare (§(a)(8)) on one floor create floor-by-floor ambiguity.
Energy facilities (§(a)(19)) — including some data centers and utility substations — are separately prohibited.
Hotels and motels are private property open to the public and are not listed as prohibited places. Carry is permitted in the lobby, hallways, your guest room, and common areas unless the hotel has posted a “no firearms” policy.
Grey Areas & Caveats
On-site bars or restaurants serving alcohol (§(a)(15)) — those specific areas are prohibited.
On-site entertainment venues, conference centers hosting events, or casinos (§(a)(18)) — those areas are separately prohibited.
Hotels that are part of a casino complex (such as Atlantic City properties) are specifically listed in §(a)(18) as prohibited.
Check for posted “no firearms” signage at hotel entrances — many major hotel chains have corporate no-firearms policies.
A hotel pool or fitness center is generally fine, but a hotel spa licensed as a healthcare facility (§(a)(21)) is a grey area.
Although not listed by name in §(a)(1)–(24), federal law independently prohibits firearms in federal buildings (18 U.S.C. §930), and the U.S. Postal Service maintains its own separate prohibition (39 C.F.R. §232.1). Both are incorporated into NJ state law through §(a)(25): “any other place in which the carrying of a firearm is prohibited by statute or rule or regulation promulgated by a federal or State agency.”
This includes post offices, Social Security offices, IRS offices, federal courthouses, VA facilities, military installations, and any other federal property. These are locations you might otherwise assume are permitted since they are not specifically named in the NJ statute — they are not. Federal law controls regardless.
⚠️ Warning
This guide is current as of June 2026. Pending litigation or legislative changes may render it obsolete at any time and without notice. This page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Carrying a firearm in a prohibited place — §(a)
3rd Degree | 3–5 years state prison | Up to $15,000 fine
Possessing a destructive device in a prohibited place — §(a)
2nd Degree | 5–10 years state prison | Up to $150,000 fine
Vehicle violations — §(b)(1) or §(b)(2)
4th Degree | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 fine
Any conviction under this section will result in:
Revocation of your carry permit and firearms identification card.
Seizure and attempted forfeiture of your firearms by the government.
A felony conviction on your record throughout the United States.
Cases: Koons v. Platkin, No. 23-1900 & Siegel v. Platkin, No. 23-2043 (consolidated)
Court: U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit
Status: En banc rehearing granted December 11, 2025. The September 10, 2025 panel opinion was vacated. Oral arguments before the full en banc court were heard February 11, 2026. Decision is pending.
Currently Enjoined — Carry Permitted
Private property default ban §(a)(24) — Enjoined as to property held open to the public. Carry is permitted unless the owner posts a prohibition.
Private vehicle prohibition §(b)(1) — Enjoined. Permit holders may carry loaded and holstered in their private vehicle.
Upheld by the Panel — Now Vacated & Under En Banc Review
The panel upheld prohibitions on most sensitive places — including parks, beaches, playgrounds, bars and restaurants, entertainment venues, casinos, healthcare facilities, and the 100-foot buffer around permitted public gatherings. Those rulings were vacated when en banc rehearing was granted and are being fully reconsidered.
What Could Change
The en banc court could narrow or expand the list of prohibited places.
The court’s composition is more conservative following recent appointments — a ruling more favorable to carry rights is considered possible, but not certain.
Any decision may be further appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The law governing carry in New Jersey is actively changing through ongoing litigation. Any provision marked “Under Court Review” is subject to change the moment the Third Circuit issues its en banc ruling. Do not rely on this page as the basis for any carry decision. Consult a qualified New Jersey firearms attorney before determining where you are or are not permitted to lawfully carry.Gun owners bear the responsibility to stay informed of all developments in this case as they occur. This situation remains subject to change at any moment.
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