Can I Keep a Loaded Firearm in My House in Massachusetts?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 02/06/2025

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Should or Can I Keep a Loaded Firearm in My House in Massachusetts?

Many Massachusetts residents ask about their rights regarding “Can I keep a loaded firearm in my House in Massachusetts? The short answer is yes – you can keep a loaded firearm in your house, but there are important requirements you must follow to do so legally and safely.

You Must Have the Right License

First and foremost, you need the correct license to possess any firearm in Massachusetts, even in your own home. A License to Carry (LTC) is required for handguns. If you only have a Firearm Identification (FID) card, that only allows you to possess long rifles – not handguns.

Breaking this law is serious. If you possess a firearm without the proper license, you could face:

Criminal prosecution
Up to 2 years in jail
Other penalties

Rules for Storing Your Firearm

Even with a proper License to Carry, you must follow Massachusetts’ storage laws. These laws exist to prevent accidents and unauthorized access to firearms.

When storing a loaded firearm in your home, you must either:

Keep it under your immediate control

This means you’re carrying it or can prevent anyone else from using it

Store it in a secure location

In a locked container (like a gun safe)
With a trigger lock that requires a key or combination to open

Additional Safety Considerations

The penalties for improper storage can increase if a child could access the firearm. While having a loaded firearm might be important for home defense, safety must come first.

To legally and safely keep a loaded firearm in your home in Massachusetts, you should:

Obtain a proper License to Carry
Purchase a quality gun safe or trigger lock
Establish clear storage procedures
Keep the firearm secured when not under your direct control

Legal Help with Firearm Laws

Massachusetts firearm laws can be complex. If you have questions about:

Firearm Licensing
Storage requirements
Your rights as a gun owner
Other firearm-related legal matters

Contact The Law Office of Matthew Peterson

Contact the Law Office of Matthew Peterson today at 617-295-7500 for trusted legal advice. We’ll help you understand your rights, stay compliant with the law, and protect your freedom. Don’t wait—reach out now for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re on the right side of Massachusetts’ firearm regulations.

Remember: Responsible gun ownership starts with understanding and following the law. Proper storage isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s essential for protecting your family and community.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice for your specific situation.

FAQs

1. What types of firearms require a License to Carry (LTC)?

In Massachusetts, a License to Carry (LTC) is required for handguns. If you only possess a Firearm Identification (FID) card, you are only allowed to own long rifles and shotguns, not handguns.

2. What are the penalties for improper firearm storage?

Improper storage of firearms can lead to serious consequences, including criminal prosecution, fines ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 depending on the circumstances, and imprisonment for up to 12 years. Additionally, if a minor gains access to an improperly stored firearm, the penalties can be significantly increased.

3. Can I store my firearm loaded at home?

Yes, you can keep a loaded firearm in your home as long as it is stored properly. This means it must be either under your immediate control or secured in a locked container or with a tamper-resistant lock that makes it inoperable by anyone other than you or another authorized user.

4. What is considered "immediate control" of a firearm?

Immediate control means that the firearm is on your person or within your reach, allowing you to prevent unauthorized access. If the firearm is not within your direct control, it must be stored securely.

5. Are there specific storage devices recommended for firearms?

Yes, Massachusetts law requires that firearms be stored in locked containers such as gun safes, lock boxes, or cabinets that can only be accessed by the owner or authorized users. Additionally, using trigger locks or cable locks is recommended to ensure safety when firearms are not in use.