If there is no local law on something do I follow state law?

Question

I just bought a knife and there are no local laws on Knives I can find so do I just follow the California state laws or is there something else I should do?

Answer 1

Yup, that is how the American legal system works:

Federal>State>County>City



You always must follow the "higher" laws and work your way down. The "lower" laws cannot override the higher laws, they can only create laws were the higher entity doesn't have them.



So as a practical example for your question of knife laws, you must always follow federal and state laws. Any local law would only restrict knives more, not less. Federal law does not regulate knives (except for shipping purposes or on federally-owned land), and Cali just regulates the carry of fixed-blade knives (open carry only), switchblades and balisongs (under 2").

Answer 2

Yes state laws overrule local laws as federal laws overrule state and local

Answer 3

First look to local city ordinance. If there's no ordinance, or if you're in an unincorporated area of your county then look to state law.

Answer 4

a knife is considered more of a tool than an arm so I guess you shouldn't have a problem with it