Denver Police Remind Drivers to Safely Store Firearms

Denver Police Remind Drivers to Safely Store Firearms

Published on May 01, 2025

Denver - Thursday, May 1, 2025 - Today, the Denver Police Department (DPD) reminds drivers of the new law about safely storing firearms in unattended vehicles. State House Bill 24-1348 took effect on January 1, 2025. This bill prohibits knowingly leaving a handgun in an unattended vehicle unless the handgun is stored in a locked hard-sided container that is not left in plain view or that is in the locked trunk of a vehicle. A firearm that is not a handgun must be stored in a locked vehicle in a locked soft-sided or locked hard-sided container that is out of view. If the firearm is in a soft-sided container, a locking device must be affixed to the gun.

To date, DPD has not issued citations for violation of this law. Violations are a civil infraction with a maximum fine of $500.

In addition to the fine, a more serious safety risk is of concern. In 2024, 550 firearms were reported stolen from vehicles in Denver. As of April 30, 2025, 98 firearms have been reported stolen from vehicles. This is 98 firearms in the wrong hands - this year alone. Stolen firearms are often used in the commission of other crimes and pose significant dangers to the entire community.

DPD officers continuously and courageously work to remove illegal guns from the hands of criminals. In 2024, 2,160 illegal guns were removed from Denver's streets by DPD.

The Denver Police Department encourages gun owners to ensure they are safely and legally storing their firearms in their unattended vehicles and offer the following tips:

• Ensure firearms that are left in an unattended vehicle are secured inside a locked, hard-sided container that is out of site and the vehicle is locked.
• A firearm that is not a handgun, must be stored in a locked vehicle in a locked soft-sided or locked hard-sided container that is out of view.
  • If the firearm is in a soft-sided container, a locking device must be affixed to the gun.
• Avoid storing the firearm in the glove box, console or under a seat.
• Store ammunition separate from the firearm.

The Denver Police Department has gun locks available at each of the six district stations. To find the closest station, please visit the Police Stations and Districts map on the Denver Police website and input your address. Locks available while supplies last.

• Police Department