COLUMBIA — The Bureau of Protective Services, a division of the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, reminds the public that with the passage of the South Carolina Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act of 2023, there are areas where it remains unlawful to carry a firearm or dangerous weapon. The South Carolina Code Section 10-11-320(A) that specifically prohibits carrying a firearm or dangerous weapon on State House grounds has not changed.

“Our officers have been advised to continue to enforce the law that prohibits weapons from being brought onto these protected grounds, as this law still applies. We are in the process of adding additional signage throughout the complex to ensure visitors are aware, upon arrival, firearms are prohibited on the grounds, regardless of the changes made by the new law,” says Chief Matthew Calhoun of the Bureau of Protective Services.

The State House grounds include the area in downtown Columbia between Gervais Street, Sumter Street, Pendleton Street, and Assembly Street, and, as indicated in the map below. Additionally, visitors to the Governor’s Mansion are also prohibited from carrying a firearm or dangerous weapon onto the grounds.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.