Firearms

Where can firearms laws be found?

State of Washington firearms laws can be found in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 9.41 and City of Lake Forest Park firearms laws can be found in the Lake Forest Park Municipal Code (LFPMC). Scroll the city list for Lake Forest Park, once there, type 9.06 in the search box.

What is a firearm?

As defined by state law in RCW 9.41.010 (1), a ‘firearm” is defined as “weapon or device from which a projectile or projectiles may be fired by an explosive such as gunpowder.” Other firearm descriptions can be found in RCW 9.41. While commonly thought of as firearms, air rifles, pellet guns and paint ball guns do not meet this provision.

Are firearms required to be locked up while living in Lake Forest Park?

No. There are no state or municipal laws governing how a firearm will be stored in your home. However, the Police Department recommends that in those homes where children are or will be present, that firearms are locked up or secured in a manner to prevent accidental discharges of the firearm. By state law, locking firearms storage boxes, locking pistol boxes and firearms safes are tax exempt.

Am I required to lock up a pistol when I leave a vehicle?

When a citizen does not have a concealed weapons permit or is not transporting an unloaded firearm, pursuant to RCW 9.41.050 (2)(c) a person is required to lock their pistol within a vehicle and concealed from view from outside the vehicle.

Does the Police Department provide firearms training?

No. While the Police Department does encourage lawful citizens who own firearms to obtain training, the Police Department does not provide training. Qualified firearms trainers can be located at the various firearms ranges around the region or in yellow page listings.

If I live in Lake Forest Park, How do I apply for a Concealed Pistol License?

To be eligible to apply for a Washington State Concealed Pistol License (CPL) you must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and live within the City limits of Lake Forest Park. CPL applications are available Monday through Thursday from 9:00 to 4:30. (Except legal holidays)

What if I do not live in Lake Forest Park?

If you do not reside in Lake Forest Park, you must go to the City or County in which you live. If you are un-incorporated, you can go to the County Office. IE: King County or Snohomish County offices and apply.

King County Sheriff‘s Office: 206-296-4190
Snohomish County Sheriff‘s Office: 425-388-3411

Concealed Pistol License process for Lake Forest Park Resident(s):

For new (original) applications, an appointment will need to be made. Lake Forest Park Police Dept processes new applicants Monday through Thursday, from 1:00 to 3:30.

For renewal or replacement applications, no appointment is required.

Required with all applications: Washington State Driver‘s License or ID card that shows you live in Lake Forest Park.

Fees for a Concealed Pistol License:

$55.25    Original application (Fingerprints Required)
$32.00    Renewal (may apply up to 90 days prior to expiration)
$42.00    Late Renewal (Renewal Fee + $10.00 late fee.
                        Up to 90 Days after expiration date)
$10.00    CPL replacement (lost/stolen/damaged)

Fees can be paid either in Cash, (exact amount) or by check. (Check must show your Lake Forest Park address and phone number.)

All Concealed pistol license fees are collected when the application is submitted. All fees are non refundable, even if the application/permit is denied.

How long is the process from the time I submit my application to receiving my permit?

For new applicants: Allow up to 30 days. It can take that long to complete the required background check through the State. Fingerprints are required.

For Renewal / Replacements: Allow up to 7-10 days. We are required to complete the same background check as if it‘s an original application. No fingerprints are required for renewals or replacements.

How long is a Concealed Pistol License valid for?

All Concealed Pistol Licenses are valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.

Replacements/damaged or stolen permits have the same expiration date as the original.

Crimes that could prohibit you from obtaining/having a Concealed Pistol License:

• Any felony offense committed in this state or any other state
• Any of the following crimes when committed by one family or household member against another, committed on or after July 1st, 1993:
• Assault in the 4th degree
• Coercion
• Stalking
• Reckless endangerment in the 2nd degree
• Criminal trespass in the 1st degree
• Violation of the provision of a protection or no-contact order restraining the person or excluding the person from a residence.

For more specific information on the laws pertaining to Concealed Pistol Licenses or weapons, how, when and where a weapon can be carried, please review the State law.