California’s knife laws are notably detailed and can be confusing for residents and visitors. Understanding the legal landscape for pocket knives is essential to avoid unintended violations.
Legal Status of Pocket Knives in California
Folding knives, including most pocket knives and Swiss Army knives, are legal to own and carry in California, provided they are in the folded or closed position. There is no restriction on blade length for folding knives when they are carried closed.
These knives may be carried either openly or concealed as long as they remain folded.
Key Restrictions and Definitions
Switchblades: Any knife that opens automatically by pressing a button or switch (switchblade) is illegal to carry if the blade is longer than 2 inches. Possession, sale, or transfer of such knives is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Dirks and Daggers: If a folding knife is carried in an open and locked position, it is considered a “dirk” or “dagger” under California law. Carrying a concealed dirk or dagger is illegal and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, with penalties ranging from up to 1 year in county jail to 3 years in prison, and fines up to $10,000.
Fixed-blade knives: These must be carried openly in a sheath suspended from the waist. Concealed carry of fixed-blade knives is illegal.
Location-Based Restrictions
Schools: Carrying knives with blades longer than 2.5 inches, or any dirk, dagger, or locking-blade folding knife, is prohibited on school grounds (K-12 and higher education institutions). Violations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges.
Public buildings: Knives with fixed blades longer than 4 inches are prohibited in public buildings.
Local ordinances: Cities like Los Angeles and Oakland have stricter rules. For example, Los Angeles bans carrying knives with blades longer than 3 inches in public.
Other Prohibited Knives
Ballistic knives, undetectable knives, and knives disguised as other objects (such as belt buckle knives or cane swords) are illegal to possess, sell, or carry in California.
California Pocket Knife Laws
| Knife Type | Carrying Legal? | Concealed Carry? | Blade Length Limit? | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Folding/Pocket Knife | Yes (folded) | Yes (folded) | No (when folded) | Illegal if open/locked & concealed |
| Switchblade (>2” blade) | No | No | 2 inches | Misdemeanor offense |
| Fixed-blade/Dirk/Dagger | Yes (openly, sheathed) | No (concealed) | No (except in certain areas) | “Wobbler” offense if concealed |
| Disguised/Ballistic/Other | No | No | N/A | Completely banned |
Practical Guidance
Always carry pocket knives in the folded position.
Avoid automatic-opening knives with blades over 2 inches.
Be aware of local ordinances, as they may be stricter than state law.
Never bring knives onto school grounds or into public buildings where prohibited.
California’s knife laws aim to balance practical use with public safety. Staying informed and cautious ensures compliance and avoids severe penalties.
Sources
[1] https://www.robertmhelfend.com/criminal-defense/californias-knife-laws/
[2] https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/knife-laws/
[3] https://tkellknives.com/is-it-legal-to-carry-a-knife-in-california-know-the-law/
[4] https://kntrialattorneys.com/blog/california-knife-laws-whats-legal-whats-not-in-2025/
[5] https://lnlegal.com/violent-crimes/faq-california-s-knife-laws/
