New Safe Gun Storage Rules Take Effect in Illinois on Jan. 1

Starting January 1, 2026, Illinois gun owners will need to follow strict new storage requirements under the Safe Gun Storage Act, with potential civil penalties for noncompliance.

Signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker last July, the law requires firearms to be secured in a locked container or fitted with a tamper-resistant safety device whenever a minor, an “at-risk” person, or a prohibited individual could gain access. Simply hiding a gun on a high shelf or in a drawer will no longer be enough if a child under 18 is present or may visit the home.

Under the law, firearms must either:

Be kept in a locked box or container, or
Have a properly engaged safety device that prevents anyone other than the owner from using or accessing the weapon.

The requirement applies whenever the owner “knows or reasonably should know” that a protected individual could access the firearm. Protected individuals include minors under 18, people prohibited by law from owning firearms (such as felons), and “at-risk” individuals who show behavior indicating a risk of self-harm or harming others. Firearms carried by or under the immediate control of the owner are exempt.

Violations of the law are civil offenses, not criminal felonies, and come with a tiered fine system:

$500 maximum for standard violations with no unauthorized access.
$1,000 maximum if a minor, at-risk, or prohibited person actually gains access.
$10,000 maximum if the unsecured firearm causes injury, death, or is used in a crime.

Judges may also impose community service or restitution instead of fines. The law makes violations prima facie evidence of negligence in civil lawsuits, meaning gun owners could face significant liability if an injury or death occurs.

The Act also shortens the reporting window for lost or stolen firearms. Previously 72 hours, gun owners must now notify local police within 48 hours of discovering a missing weapon.

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