Lock Pick Laws in California
Ambiguous laws, intent requirements, or varies by circumstance
California
- 🏠At Home✓ Legal
- 🚗In Vehicle⚠ Caution
- 🎒Carrying⚠ Caution
- 🎪Events✓ Legal
Overview
California treats lock picks as potential "burglary tools" under **Penal Code Section 466**. However, the law specifically requires **intent to commit a felony** for any criminal liability. Mere possession without felonious intent is not illegal. This means locksport enthusiasts can legally own, use, and even carry lock picks, as long as they are not intending to use them for illegal purposes. The key factor is always **intent**.
Legality by Scenario
Legal to possess at home for hobby purposes. No permit or registration required.
Key Points
- •PC 466 requires proof of felonious intent
- •Possession alone is not a crime
- •Burden of proof is on the prosecution
Risk Factors
- ⚠Keep with other hobby materials to demonstrate legitimate purpose
- ⚠Document your locksport involvement (club membership, competition records)
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws may change. Always consult a qualified attorney for specific legal guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & References
“Every person having upon him or her in his or her possession a picklock, crow, keybit, crowbar... with intent feloniously to break or enter into any building... is guilty of a misdemeanor.”
“In order to sustain a conviction for possessing burglary tools, the prosecution must prove that a defendant possessed at least one of the devices listed in section 466 with the intent to use the tools for the felonious purposes of breaking and entering.”
“While many people own these common tools, it becomes illegal to have possession or alter these tools if you have the intent to break into some type of structure.”
“Penal Code § 466 PC makes it a crime to possess burglary tools with the intent of breaking into a dwelling, structure, automobile, or watercraft. A conviction is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in the county jail.”
“California (Pen. Code §466): Possession of burglary tools with felonious intent is a crime; even tools associated with burglary can trigger charges if intent is proven.”
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Legal Disclaimer
This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified attorney for specific legal guidance.
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