Florida § 790.174 - Safe storage of firearms required.

Full text of Florida Florida Statutes § 790.174 — Safe storage of firearms required., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 790.174. Safe storage of firearms required.

(1) A person who stores or leaves, on a premise under his or her control, a loaded firearm, as defined in s. 790.001, and who knows or reasonably should know that a minor is likely to gain access to the firearm without the lawful permission of the minor’s parent or the person having charge of the minor, or without the supervision required by law, shall keep the firearm in a securely locked box or container or in a location which a reasonable person would believe to be secure or shall secure it with a trigger lock, except when the person is carrying the firearm on his or her body or within such close proximity thereto that he or she can retrieve and use it as easily and quickly as if he or she carried it on his or her body. (2) It is a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083, if a person violates subsection (1) by failing to store or leave a firearm in the required manner and as a result thereof a minor gains access to the firearm, without the lawful permission of the minor’s parent or the person having charge of the minor, and possesses or exhibits it, without the supervision required by law: (a) In a public place; or (b) In a rude, careless, angry, or threatening manner in violation of s. 790.10. This subsection does not apply if the minor obtains the firearm as a result of an unlawful entry by any person. 1 (3) As used in this act, the term “minor” means any person under the age of 16.

Source: official Florida text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida § 790.174

What does Florida Statutes § 790.174 cover?

Section 790.174 ("Safe storage of firearms required.") is part of the Florida Statutes, the codified statutory law of Florida. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Florida § 790.174?

A common citation format is "Florida Statutes § 790.174" (Florida). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Florida law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Florida official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Florida attorney.

How does Florida § 790.174 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Florida can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Florida.