Summary
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Cost
Varies by location and provider. -
Ease of Use
Firearms are completely inaccessible without visiting the off-site location. -
Availability
Flexible options — including gun shops, shooting ranges, gun clubs, law enforcement agencies, or a trusted friend. -
Use For
Physically removing firearms from the home while maintaining ownership.
How do I temporarily remove guns from my home?
Explore off-site gun storage programs available in these states:
If your state isn’t listed, contact your local law enforcement or public health department to ask about temporary firearm storage options in your area. You can also reach out to local gun shops, shooting ranges or gun clubs to see if they offer temporary off-site storage.
How do I permanently remove a gun from my home?
If you no longer want a firearm, or believe having one in the home may pose a long-term risk, you can choose to give it up permanently.
Most local law enforcement departments will accept unwanted firearms. Call ahead to ask if they accept personal firearms and what procedures are involved. It is important to understand if the gun can be delivered to the station or if law enforcement will come to your home to collect it.
Some national organizations may also help with firearm disposal or takeback programs. Before surrendering your gun, confirm that the organization follows safe and responsible firearm disposal practices.
Extreme Risk Laws
Twenty-one states and Washington, D.C. have Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPOs) — also known as red flag laws — that can temporarily restrict access to firearms for individuals at risk of harming themselves or others.
These civil orders are tools to pause access to firearms and give those in crisis time for intervention and recovery. Hearings for ERPOs happen in civil, not criminal, courts. The at-risk individual can attend and have an opportunity to be heard as part of the evidence presented to ensure due process. Researchers found that 1 life was saved for every 10–20 ERPOs issued in Connecticut, and approximately 13% of orders in California prevented potential mass shootings.
To learn more, contact your local law enforcement or visit your state’s public health department website.
Choose the Storage Option That Fits Your Life
Gun storage needs can vary from one household to another and may shift over time. Locking your firearms is a strong first step toward preventing unintended access. Explore the options to secure your guns and help protect your loved ones from family fire.
