California Penal Code Section 25145 is a cornerstone of the state's firearm storage laws. As legislation evolves, gun owners must stay informed about what is considered lawful storage and who can legally access a firearm in a household. At Bulldog Law, we help clients interpret, comply with, and, when needed, defend against accusations under California's complex firearm statutes.

New laws taking effect in 2026 heighten the need for vigilance. Households that include individuals prohibited from possessing firearms face new compliance challenges and legal risks. Proactive legal counsel can prevent charges and safeguard both your rights and your future.

Key Definitions Under California Penal Code 25145

PC 25145 provides critical definitions that govern how other firearm storage statutes are applied. Two essential terms are “authorized user” and “securely stored.” These definitions dictate compliance standards and are often central to any legal defense.

An authorized user is someone not prohibited by law from possessing a firearm and who either owns the firearm or has been lawfully permitted by the owner to access it. Gun owners must ensure they do not mistakenly allow access to anyone prohibited by federal or state law—such as individuals with felony convictions, certain restraining orders, or mental health adjudications. Missteps here can lead to prosecution under overlapping statutes, including California Penal Code 1203.06 firearm enhancement probation bars.

Secure Storage Requirements Explained

Secure storage means storing a firearm in a manner that prevents unauthorized access—especially when a prohibited person lives in the household. This may involve the use of safes, trigger locks, or other physical security measures.

However, what counts as “secure” can be context-dependent. Prosecutors may argue that a firearm in a locked cabinet still poses a risk depending on who else resides in the home. As with assault with a deadly weapon vs. assault with a firearm, context and specific facts play a critical role in defining violations and defenses. Defense attorneys often rely on expert testimony and physical evidence to establish compliance with secure storage rules.

New Storage Obligations Under Penal Code 25135 (Effective 2026)

Beginning January 1, 2026, Penal Code 25135 will require gun owners to store firearms securely in any home shared with someone prohibited from firearm possession. If the gun is not in a secure device, it must be under the direct control of an authorized user.

This law addresses so-called "mixed households"—where one resident may lawfully possess firearms, but another (due to restraining orders, parole, etc.) may not. Failure to follow these protocols can result in misdemeanor charges and loss of gun rights.

Proper application of these rules can help avoid charges and preserve Second Amendment protections. We advise gun owners to assess their living arrangements and consult with experienced legal counsel to determine the best storage practices.

Safe Harbor Provisions and Legal Protections

California firearm law does offer safe harbor provisions under sections like PC 25105 and 25205. These laws provide immunity from prosecution when owners can prove they stored their firearms securely or had them under direct control. This helps protect lawful owners in situations where unauthorized users gained access through theft or other unforeseen means.

However, these protections are not automatic. Gun owners must be able to document their efforts and demonstrate proper compliance. Having clear records, receipts for gun safes, or even home security footage can be helpful in asserting these defenses.

Residency Considerations and Where the Law Applies

The definition of "residence" is broad under PC 17060. It includes not only houses and apartments but also RVs, mobile homes, and temporary living structures. This ensures that firearm storage laws apply across all living environments—not just traditional households.

Gun owners in shared or temporary living situations must be especially cautious. If a prohibited person joins the household—even temporarily—the gun owner may face liability unless secure storage protocols are followed. Situational assessments are essential, and legal review may be necessary in ambiguous circumstances.

Enforcement Trends and Prosecution Strategies

Law enforcement and prosecutors have increasingly prioritized storage violations, especially in cases involving domestic violence or accidental shootings. Investigators are trained to look for improper access, lack of secure storage, or evidence that a firearm was available to someone barred from possession.

Firearm storage charges often accompany other gun-related offenses. For example, during federal investigations, clients may also face charges requiring knowledge of how to fight federal firearms charges. At Bulldog Law, we evaluate every aspect of the case—from household conditions to constitutional defenses—to challenge unjust charges.

Second Amendment and Constitutional Challenges

Storage laws can intersect with constitutional rights. While the courts have generally upheld reasonable firearm regulations, overly burdensome or vague storage laws may be subject to legal challenge. Defense attorneys may cite recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings that emphasize the historical context of gun regulations in crafting constitutional defenses.

We carefully assess whether your rights have been infringed upon, especially if charges are based on unclear interpretations of what counts as “secure” or “under control.” Protecting your Second Amendment rights while ensuring legal compliance is our dual mission.

Building a Strong Defense for Firearm Storage Charges

When facing charges under PC 25145 or related statutes, your defense should focus on whether you complied with storage laws, the clarity of any “authorized user” designations, and the factual basis for any claimed violations. We use expert analysis, documentation, and witness statements to challenge the prosecution's narrative.

Each case requires a tailored strategy. For example, if a prohibited person accessed a firearm despite the use of proper locking devices, we may argue that the incident falls under a statutory exception. If law enforcement exaggerated the nature of “access,” we will challenge their evidence point by point.

Firearm Storage Defense Lawyers in California

If you're facing firearm storage charges under Penal Code 25145 or anticipating liability under the 2026 firearm laws, you need a legal team that understands the stakes. Bulldog Law's experienced attorneys combine legal insight, constitutional knowledge, and practical strategies to build a powerful defense.

Whether you need to respond to charges, update your storage practices, or fight related firearms allegations, we're here to help. Contact Bulldog Law today for a confidential consultation and take the first step in protecting your rights as a responsible gun owner.