Maine

Secure Storage
Laws in Maine

Maine historically had very few gun safety laws, but in the wake of the 2023 mass shooting in Lewiston, the state made significant progress. The state has most of the foundational gun laws in place, including a child access prevention law that took effect in 2021.

State Requirements

Secure Storage in Maine

Maine state law requires gun owners to securely store their loaded firearms on premises under their control in a manner that prevents children and teens under the age of 16 from accessing them. Expand each section below for full requirements and what happens if they aren’t met.

The information provided here is not legal advice and should not be understood as such. Consult with an attorney if you have questions about how your state’s laws apply to your specific circumstances.

Gun owners in Maine are required to store their loaded firearm(s) in their homes securely to keep children under the age of 16 from accessing them.
To securely store a firearm in Maine, gun owners should store loaded firearms:

  • In a locked box, gun safe, or other secure locked space;
  • In a secure location;
  • With a trigger lock or other device that prevents it from being discharged.

Gun owners in Maine may be subject to criminal penalties if:

  • A child under age 16 gains access to a negligently stored loaded firearm; and,
  • The child uses the loaded firearm in a reckless or threatening manner, in the commission of a crime, or they discharge the firearm.

By the Numbers

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More than 700 children die by gun suicide each year, most often using guns belonging to a family member.

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At least one-third of youth gun suicides and unintentional deaths could be prevented with secure storage.

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More than 200,000 guns are stolen from individuals every year, significant portion of those are stolen from cars

Best Practices

Secure Storage for Homes and Vehicles

Gun safety is always an adult’s responsibility, no matter what your state’s laws require — secure storage protects your kids, family, and community from tragedy.

There are many types of storage devices to meet the needs of different gun owners, but the best solution is one you will use consistently, every time.

Take the time, every time, to secure your gun.

Remember

Just because a gun is out of sight does not mean it is stored securely

Firearms “hidden” in places such as under mattresses, on closet shelves, in nightstand drawers, or under the seat in a vehicle can be found by curious or determined children and teens, who may — intentionally or unintentionally — kill or injure themselves or others. It only takes seconds for tragedy to strike.

Locked Up

With keys or codes kept private

Unloaded

Ensure there is no ammunition in the gun

Separate from ammunition

Store ammunition in a different place from guns

Download

Maine Secure Gun Storage Sheet

Download information about secure gun storage in Maine in English or Spanish.