On August 14, 2026, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve a federal lawsuit alleging that the agency had delayed the issuance of concealed‑carry permits. The agreement obligates the department to accelerate licensing for Californians who meet eligibility requirements.
The settlement addresses the DOJ’s claim that the sheriff’s office violated federal law by not processing permits within required timeframes. Under the terms of the deal, the department will adopt procedures designed to speed the review and approval of concealed‑carry applications.
California’s gun‑carrying regulations are among the nation’s most restrictive, requiring applicants to obtain a permit from the county sheriff. The lawsuit asserted that Los Angeles County was falling short of mandated processing timelines, prompting federal action.
By implementing the settlement’s provisions, the department aims to reduce existing backlogs and bring its practices into alignment with federal standards. Eligible residents who satisfy state criteria can expect shorter waiting periods for their concealed‑carry licenses.
The sheriff’s office will cooperate with DOJ monitors to track compliance and provide periodic reports. The settlement does not include a monetary penalty and does not constitute an admission of wrongdoing by either party.
The resolution comes amid continued scrutiny of how local agencies enforce California’s stringent gun‑control laws, highlighting the balance between public safety mandates and the rights of qualified permit seekers.