Vermont

Secure Storage
Laws in Vermont

Vermont has strengthened its gun laws in recent years and has the majority of the foundational gun laws in place. These gun safety laws include a secure storage law, which took effect in Vermont in 2023.

State Requirements

Secure Storage in Vermont

Vermont state law requires gun owners to securely store their firearms to prevent access by children, teens, and other unauthorized users. 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 Vermont are required to securely store their firearm(s) in their homes and other premises under their control if they know or should know that a child under the age of 18 or other unauthorized user is likely to gain access to them. . In Vermont, secure storage of firearms means:

  • Storing a firearm in a tamper-resistant locked container (such as a box, case, chest, locker, or other similar receptacle); or
  • Equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device.

Gun owners in Vermont may be subject to criminal penalties if a child under the age of 18 or another prohibited person gains access to an improperly stored firearm and then uses the firearm in the commission of a crime, displays it in a threatening manner, or uses it to cause death or serious bodily injury.

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

Vermont Secure Gun Storage Sheet

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