Many houses of worship are exploring ways to strengthen safety for their congregations. For some, this includes the use of armed volunteers. While Florida law does not specifically address “armed volunteers” in religious institutions, several statutes and legislative measures provide important guidance. Understanding these laws is essential for faith leaders, boards, and volunteers who want to serve responsibly and legally.
House Bill 259 (2021)
Effective June 30, 2021, House Bill 259 expanded protections for worshippers by allowing individuals with a valid Concealed Weapon or Firearm License (CWFL) to carry firearms at houses of worship, even if the property includes a school or daycare. Importantly, this right is contingent upon permission from the institution itself. Churches and synagogues must therefore establish clear policies to govern who may carry and under what circumstances.
Private Security Licensing (Chapter 493, Florida Statutes)
If a church organizes its safety team to function as a private security force, it may fall under the requirements of Chapter 493. This statute governs private security licensing in Florida, meaning teams that operate formally as security providers must comply with training, background checks, and state oversight.
Recommended Training Courses
Even when volunteers are not formally licensed, training is critical. Programs such as the House of Worship Safety Team Firearm Qualification Course help volunteers meet high standards of proficiency and safety. These courses emphasize not only marksmanship but also judgment, de-escalation, and coordination with law enforcement.
Concealed Carry in Houses of Worship
- Statute: Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a)12
- Summary: Individuals with a CWFL may carry concealed firearms in houses of worship. However, if the religious institution is located on property that also serves as a school, carrying a firearm is generally prohibited unless specific exceptions apply.
This statute underscores the importance of knowing the property’s legal designation before authorizing armed volunteers.
Security in Houses of Worship on School Property
- Statute: Florida Statute 790.115(2)(a)
- Summary: Churches located on school property may be considered part of a school safety zone, where firearms are typically prohibited. Licensed security personnel are authorized to carry per the scope of their assignment. Active duty peace officers are authorized at any time.
This creates a unique challenge for congregations that share space with schools or daycare facilities.
Armed Security Personnel
- Statute: Florida Statute 493.6101 et seq.
- Summary: This statute governs private security and investigative services, including licensing requirements for armed guards. If a house of worship hires or designates armed security personnel, those individuals must be properly licensed, trained, and vetted under Florida law.
Volunteers and Liability Considerations
Allowing armed volunteers introduces legal liability and insurance implications. Religious institutions should consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with state laws and to establish clear policies and procedures. Liability waivers, insurance coverage, and documented training standards are all essential safeguards.
Key Takeaways
- Florida law permits concealed carry in houses of worship under certain conditions.
- Organized security teams may need to comply with Chapter 493 licensing requirements.
- Training programs are strongly recommended to ensure safety and proficiency.
- Churches on school property face additional restrictions under school safety zone statutes.
- Liability and insurance must be carefully considered before authorizing armed volunteers.
While Florida law does not directly regulate “armed volunteers” in houses of worship, the framework provided by existing statutes makes clear that responsibility, training, and compliance are non-negotiable. Religious institutions considering armed volunteer teams should seek legal guidance, establish transparent policies, and prioritize safety above all else.
Checklist for Armed Volunteer Security Teams in Florida Houses of Worship
1. Confirm Legal Authority
- Review House Bill 259 (2021): CWFL holders may carry firearms at houses of worship, even if the property includes a school or daycare, provided the institution grants permission.
- Check Florida Statute 790.06(12)(a)12: Concealed carry is permitted unless the worship property also serves as a school.
- Verify Florida Statute 790.115(2)(a): If the church is on school property, firearms may be restricted under “school safety zone” rules.
2. Determine Security Structure
- Decide if the team is informal volunteers or a formal security force.
- If organized as a private security team, comply with Chapter 493, Florida Statutes (licensing, training, background checks).
- If hiring armed personnel, ensure compliance with Florida Statute 493.6101 et seq..
3. Establish Written Policies
- Require institutional permission for any armed volunteer.
- Define roles and responsibilities clearly (e.g., observation, deterrence, response).
- Document use-of-force guidelines consistent with Florida law.
- Require background checks and proof of CWFL for all armed volunteers.
4. Training & Qualification
- Enroll volunteers in recognized programs such as the House of Worship Safety Team Firearm Qualification Course.
- Provide ongoing training in:
- Firearm proficiency
- De-escalation techniques
- Emergency response coordination with law enforcement
- Maintain training records for accountability.
5. Insurance & Liability
- Consult legal counsel regarding liability exposure.
- Review insurance coverage for incidents involving armed volunteers.
- Consider requiring volunteers to sign liability waivers.
- Establish clear reporting procedures for any incident.
6. Coordination with Law Enforcement
- Submit security plans for sheriff approval when required.
- Maintain open communication with local police and sheriff’s offices.
- Invite law enforcement to review and advise on safety protocols.
7. Ongoing Oversight
- Conduct annual reviews of policies and training.
- Update procedures based on changes in Florida law (e.g., pending SB 52 / HB 95).
- Hold regular safety drills with volunteers and staff.
Florida law provides pathways for armed volunteers in houses of worship, but compliance, training, and liability management are essential. Boards should treat this as a serious governance issue, not just a security decision. By following this checklist, congregations can protect their members while staying aligned with both the law and best practices.