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Court Services Division Manual / Volume 4 - Security / Chapter 4 - Security Policies and Procedures

4-04/025.00 Peace Officers Entering a Courthouse


4-04/020.20 Refusal to Submit to Weapon Screening
4-04/025.05 Securing Peace Officer’s Weapons Appearing on Personal Business

California Penal Code Section 171b authorizes the carrying of firearms, including other specified weapons, into a courthouse by a peace officer (active or retired) unless the officer is a party to the Court action. Violation of this section can be punished as a felony offense.

All peace officers (whether in uniform or civilian attire), must present their Department (picture) Identification upon entering the courthouse. Security personnel shall examine the picture identification, and shall ask the peace officer(s) the following question:

  • “Are you here today on a personal matter or on official police business?”

If the peace officer (active or retired), is appearing on official police business direct him/her to:

  • “Check in with the bailiff upon arrival in Court.”

If the peace officer (active or retired), is appearing as a party in any Court action, not arising out of official duties, it is prohibited for them to retain their weapon while taking care of their personal court business.

If the peace officer (active or retired), (except those appearing in an official police capacity), is attending any family law related matter (as a party in the action or a supporter to a party in the action) it is prohibited for them to retain their weapon while attending any family law court matter.

Weapons shall be secured in a designated gun locker or held in the Sheriff’s Office for safekeeping. The weapon will be returned upon the conclusion of the peace officer’s business in the Court building.

Refer to CSDM, 4-04/025.05 - Securing Peace Officer's Weapons Appearing on Personal Business.

Private Investigators, Body Guards and Bounty Hunters etc., are not peace officers. If they have a weapon, they must have a CCW (Carrying a Concealed Weapons Permit). The permit only authorizes them to carry a weapon, but they may not retain their weapon while conducting their court business. Their weapon must be secured in a designated gun locker or held in the Sheriff’s Office for safekeeping. If they do not have a pictured I.D. or a CCW with them; or if they have questions regarding securing their weapon, contact your supervisor immediately.

Weapons should only be secured in a vehicle as a last resort.