Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

Humboldt County Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) permit holders will now have until the end of October to renew their permits due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Thursday, April 16, Sheriff William Honsal implemented emergency CCW extensions for permits expiring in 2020. Permits set to expire this year will have their validity extended to October 31, 2020. These extensions are only valid in Humboldt County.

The emergency extensions come after the Shelter in Place Order of the Health Officer placed limitations on public gatherings. With the restrictions, permit holders have not been able to complete mandatory refresher courses and renewal interviews. Though the permits have been extended, CCW holders are encouraged to begin the renewal process online at the Sheriff’s Office’s website as soon as the restrictions have been lifted.

As use of facial coverings is recommended for all Humboldt County residents, Sheriff Honsal says that CCW Permit holders abiding by the recommendation while carrying their weapon will not be in violation of Penal Code 25300(a).

“Penal Code 25300(a) only applies to those persons who are carrying weapons while masked to hide their identity,” Sheriff Honsal said. “If you are lawfully carrying your weapon while following the guidance from the Public Health Officer, to wear a mask for protection against COVD-19, then you are not in violation. Thank you for being a safe and responsible CCW holder in our County.”

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office is not accepting new CCW permit applications at this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information regarding the CCW permitting process, visit humboldtsheriff.org/ccw or call 707-445-7251.