I was at the mall with my family. The mall has a strict “No Weapons” sign posted. An active shooter opened fire in the food court. I drew my concealed carry weapon and engaged the shooter, stopping the threat. I was a hero on the news, but the local DA charged me with “Criminal Trespass with a Firearm.” My insurance provider sent a letter: “Reservation of Rights – Potential Illegal Act.”
Key Takeaways
- The “Criminal Act” Exclusion: Insurance cannot pay for illegal acts. If carrying in that zone is a crime (e.g., a Post Office, School, or Courthouse), coverage is almost always denied.
- “Policy” vs. “Law”: If the “No Guns” sign is just store policy (not law), you are usually covered. You might face trespassing charges, but it’s not a “Gun Free Zone” crime. (Know your state laws: In TX, 30.06/30.07 signs carry legal weight; in other states, they don’t).
- Federal Zones are Deadly: Post Offices and Federal Buildings are absolute no-go zones. Insurance will not touch a federal felony defense.
- The “Necessity” Defense: Your lawyer will argue “Necessity” (breaking a minor law to prevent a major harm). A good insurance program (like US Law Shield) will fund this defense if there is a chance of winning.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Intentional Criminal Acts.”
If you knowingly entered a prohibited area (like a school zone without a specific license), you committed a crime before the shooting started. The insurer argues that the entire chain of events stems from that criminal act.
The Investigation (I Asked the Attorneys)
I asked program attorneys about “Gun Free Zones.”
US Law Shield
- Stance: “We defend you against the charge. If you are charged with carrying in a Gun Free Zone, we provide the lawyer.”
- Caveat: They defend the charge. They don’t guarantee the outcome.
USCCA
- Stance: Policy language has excluded “Criminal Acts” in the past. In 2026, they generally cover the self-defense count, but if the “carrying” charge stands alone, it’s a grey area.
- Note: If you are in a federally prohibited place (Post Office), expect a denial.
Comparison Table
| Location | Legal Status | Insurance Coverage |
| “No Guns” Sign (Private Store) | Civil Trespass (Usually) | Likely Covered |
| School Zone | Felony (Unless licensed) | High Risk of Denial |
| Post Office / Federal | Federal Felony | Denied |
| Bar / Club (51%) | Felony (in many states) | Denied |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Know the Signs: Learn the difference between a “Policy” sign (store rules) and a “Statutory” sign (legal ban).
- Avoid Federal Zones: Never carry in a Post Office parking lot. There is no defense and no insurance for that.
- If Forced to Act: If lives are at stake, you act. But know that the legal battle will be harder.
- [IMAGE: Graphic showing the difference between a compliant ‘30.06’ sign and a generic ‘No Guns’ sticker]
- Check “Recoupment”: If you are convicted of the Gun Free Zone violation, will the insurer ask for the legal fees back? (USCCA: Maybe. US Law Shield: No).
FAQ
What if I didn’t see the sign?
That is a factual defense. Your lawyer will argue lack of intent. Insurance defends this.
Is my car a ‘Gun Free Zone’ in a school parking lot?
In many states, if you have a permit and leave it locked in the car, you are legal. If you take it out, you are a felon.