Michigan Safe Storage Law

Safe Storage Notice

To help protect Michigan’s youth and prevent firearm-related unintentional injuries, Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 28.429, Section 9 of 1927 PA 372 requires firearm owners to securely store firearms wherever minors are present or likely to be present. This notice is designed to assist parents, guardians, and gun owners in complying with the new secure storage requirements.
Below you’ll find a summary of Section 9, Subsections (1) and (2) of MCL 28.429, answers to frequently asked questions, secure storage resources, and information on how to obtain free or low-cost firearm locks and storage.

Safe Storage Requirements

Firearms in Vehicles

Penalties for Noncompliance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the safe storage law apply to all firearms or only certain types?

Does this law apply to both loaded and unloaded firearms?

Do I need to use a specific type of lock or safe to comply?

Yes. A “locked box or container" means a secure container, specifically designed for the storage of firearms, that is fully enclosed and locked by a padlock, key lock, combination lock, or similar locking device to which a minor does not possess the key or combination or otherwise have access. "Locking device" means a trigger lock, cable lock or similar lock that prevents a firearm from discharging. If a locking device is used, the firearm must be unloaded and rendered inoperable.

What should I do if I suspect another child might have access to a firearm that isn’t being securely stored, and therefore in violation of the law?

Where can I get a lock box/container or a locking device?

Firearm safety kits provided by Project Childsafe are free. These kits contain a cable lock and an informational brochure. Some local police departments, local health departments or other community organizations may provide free or low-cost firearm locks or storage devices. Check with your local law enforcement agency for more information. Please refer to the “free and reduced cost firearm locking devices” section of this notice for more information on where to find these items in your community.

As a non-gun owner, how can I make sure that children and teenagers stay safe when they visit homes with firearms?

Where does this law apply?

Are there exceptions to the law?

This law does not apply if the minor obtains the firearm:

• With the permission of the minor’s parent or guardian and if the minor uses the firearm under the supervision of the parent, guardian, or individual who is age 18 or older who is authorized by the person’s parent or guardian, and:

• The firearm is possessed or used for minor’s employment.

• The firearm is possessed or used for ranching, farming or hunting, if the minor is following all applicable hunting laws.

• The firearm is possessed or used for target practice or instruction of safe use of a firearm.

Penalties may not apply when:

• A minor obtains a firearm through the minor’s unlawful entry of any premises or motor vehicle where the firearm has been stored.

• A minor obtains a firearm while lawfully acting in self-defense or defense of another.

Additional information on firearm safety and safe storage

Free or Low-Cost Firearm Locking Devices

If you’re looking for free or reduced cost firearm locking devices, there are several resources available to support you.

Project ChildSafe is a national program that partners with law enforcement and other agencies to distribute free firearm safety kits, which include cable locks. You can use their online “find a safety kit” tool to locate a participating agency in your area.
Be Smart is a community program that focuses on promoting responsible gun ownership and secure firearm storage to reduce accidental shootings and deaths among children.
Local health departments may also offer locks or safes at no cost or at a discount as part of a firearm injury prevention initiative. Contact your local health department to find out if they distribute free firearm locks.
Local police departments often provide free firearm locks. Call or visit their websites to ask about the availability of safe storage devices.
Firearm retailers or shooting ranges may occasionally participate in lock distribution programs or offer discounts on safe storage materials. Call or visit their websites to check on the availability of resources.
Local suicide prevention coalitions or non-profit organizations may also offer locks or safes as part of community safety programs. Call or visit their websites to check for availability.

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