California’s AB-1263 (effective January 1, 2026) and SB-704 (effective January 1, 2026, with additional requirements starting July 1, 2027) dramatically expand compliance obligations for FFLs and firearm-related businesses.
- Barrels must now go through an FFL (no direct-to-consumer sales)
- Accessories and parts now trigger age verification, notices, and delivery restrictions
- Online sellers and out-of-state companies are fully covered
- New civil and criminal liability risks apply to how products are sold and marketed
If you sell firearm-related products to California—even from another state—these laws apply to you.
Contents
Who These Laws Apply To (Important)
These laws apply to:
- Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs)
- Online parts retailers
- Manufacturers and distributors
- Any business selling firearm-related products into California
This is not just a California dealer issue—it directly impacts interstate commerce.
SB-704: Barrel Sales Now Require FFL Processing
Effective: January 1, 2026
Expanded Requirements: July 1, 2027
SB-704 creates a new rule:
Standalone firearm barrels must be transferred through a licensed dealer
What This Means:
- Barrels cannot be shipped directly to consumers
- Online orders must be sent to a California FFL
- The customer must complete the transfer in person
Starting July 1, 2027:
- A background check is required for barrel purchases
- Dealers must submit transaction records to CA DOJ
Related Deep Dive:
AB-1263: New Rules for Accessories, Parts, and Sales Processes
Effective: January 1, 2026
AB-1263 expands compliance beyond firearms to include:
- Firearm accessories
- Manufacturing tools (e.g., CNC/3D equipment)
- Certain parts and product categories
1. Mandatory Notices + Customer Acknowledgment
Before completing a sale, businesses must:
- Provide a legal warning about unlawful firearm manufacturing
- Obtain confirmation the buyer received and understands it
2. Age & Identity Verification
Before sale or delivery:
- Verify the buyer is at least 18
- Collect and confirm identification
3. Shipping & Delivery Requirements
All covered products must:
- Require adult signature upon delivery
- Be shipped to an address matching the buyer’s ID
- Be clearly labeled with delivery restrictions
Related Guide:
California Firearm Accessory Laws
4. Expanded Definitions = Expanded Risk
The law broadens what counts as:
- “Firearm accessory”
- “Firearm manufacturing machine”
Many items previously treated as standard retail products may now fall under regulated categories.
5. Digital Files & Manufacturing Liability
The law expands restrictions on:
- Digital instructions used to produce firearms or components
- Platforms or businesses distributing those materials
It also creates new legal exposure for:
- Enabling unlawful manufacturing
- Assisting prohibited activity (even indirectly)
6. New Criminal & Civil Liability
Businesses now face risk for:
- Facilitating unlawful firearm manufacturing
- Failing to implement proper controls
Additional offenses now trigger:
- 10-year firearm prohibitions for individuals
What FFLs Should Do Immediately
1. Update Sales Processes
- Add required notices + acknowledgments
- Implement age verification
2. Fix Shipping Policies
- Ensure adult signature + labeling compliance
3. Review Product Catalog
- Identify items that may now fall under expanded definitions
4. Prepare for Barrel Processing
- Train staff for incoming barrel transfers
- Plan for 2027 background check requirements
Supporting Guides for FFLs
These laws are intentionally broad—and enforcement risk is real.
FFL+ helps dealers and firearm businesses implement compliant systems, reduce liability, and stay ahead of California regulations.
If you’re an FFL or sell into California: Don’t guess—hire FFL+.