Safe gun storage laws are in effect in most all States to prevent accidents in homes especially where children are involved. The ATF (Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) has a mandate in place for gun selling facilities which states that firearms are to be secured in safes or have trigger locks installed to prevent firing. The selling establishment has to sign a certification form that they comply by this law. This law is required by all states.
In New York State, all retailers that sell firearms to customers, whether they are new or used, must provide some type of locking device with their purchase such as trigger locks, cable locks, etc. These locks do not need to be installed when sold and each device must meet certain requirements that prevent firearms from being fired. This law does not apply to sales between dealers. New York does not require buyers to secure their firearms with these devices but it is highly recommended they do. Firearm owners should check with their local authorities to determine if there are any local ordinances require otherwise. There are codes within the state that states it is a criminal violation punishable by up to 10 days imprisonment and/or a fine up to $250 for any owner to store or leave a firearm in such a manner that is out of their immediate possession or control, without making the weapon inoperable by installing a safety locking device.
While these required types of locks do protect firearms from being fired, they do not prevent them from being stolen once the buyer places them in their home. Gun cases and wood gun racks do not deter gun theft and do not qualify as safe storage. They should be secured in locking devices such as locking gun racks, firearm safes, etc. to add extra security.
Several states have passed laws that make firearm owners criminally liable if someone is injured because a child gains unsupervised access to a gun and can issue fines or jail time where children are involved depending on the circumstances.
Florida, as well as other states, has several laws and regulations regarding safe gun storage in homes as well as in vehicles. The state of Florida’s major concern is the safety for children. Anyone in violation of improper storage of firearms where children can have easy access could be subject to up to 60 days in jail and a $1000 in related fines.
The state of California, like in most all other states, requires all firearms be stored in a safe and secured manner. They also require all retail sales of firearms include a Department of Justice locking safety device or proof that the purchaser owns a firearm safe that meets regulatory standards established by the department. The types of approved devices can be found on the Department of Justice’s website…
Since State laws are constantly changing, this article is for general information and not for official use. You can check with your state and local authorities for current updates pertaining to safe gun storage laws.