Rules for Transporting Firearms in Michigan

Knowing the rules for legally transporting guns in Michigan is essential for any firearm owner. In this state, specific laws dictate how firearms should be carried in vehicles and other means of transport to ensure safety and compliance with the law. Violating these rules can lead to serious legal consequences. Below, George Law provides an overview of Michigan’s gun transportation laws, including the dos and don’ts, to help you avoid a bad situation.

Understanding Gun Transportation Laws In Michigan

When transporting firearms, crossbows, bows, and arrows, there are specific rules that must be followed regardless of whether the vehicle is in motion, on private property, or on public property. Firearms must always be unloaded in the barrel, and arrows must be securely stored in a quiver, especially when a hunter is outside the legal hunting hours. However, these rules have exceptions, particularly for pistols carried under the authority of a Concealed Pistol License (CPL).

In the case of motor vehicles, which include snowmobiles, the law says that rifles, shotguns, muzzleloading firearms, and other types of firearms must always be unloaded not only in the barrel but also in the magazine. These firearms must either be enclosed in a case or carried in the vehicle’s trunk. Similarly, for equipment like crossbows, slingshots, bows, and arrows, the rules require that they be either enclosed in a case, unstrung, or also carried in the trunk of the vehicle.

For off-road vehicles, the requirements are similar to those for cars. Firearms such as rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloading firearms need to be unloaded in both the barrel and magazine and must be either enclosed in a case or equipped with a mechanism to make them unusable. The same storage methods apply to crossbows, slingshots, bows, and arrows; they must either be in a case or unstrung.

When it comes to boats, the rules again require that rifles, shotguns, muzzleloading firearms, and other firearms be unloaded in both the barrel and magazine at all times. In this scenario, loading the firearms is not permitted, although there is an exception related to waterfowl hunting.

Unlawful Gun Transportation Law In Michigan

According to Section 750.227d, a person is not permitted to transport or have a firearm, other than a pistol, in a motor vehicle or any vehicle designed for land travel unless certain conditions are met. These conditions include the firearm being unloaded and either taken down (disassembled), enclosed in a case, carried in the trunk of the vehicle, or stored in a place that is inaccessible from the interior of the vehicle. Violating this law is a misdemeanor that is punishable by up to 90 days in prison, a fine of up to $100, or both. 

Michigan Unlawful Gun Transportation Lawyers

If you’re facing charges for unlawful gun transportation in Michigan or other gun or weapon charges, George Law can provide you with the legal support you need. To speak with an experienced gun crime lawyer, contact us at (248) 247-7459 or connect with us online. Our team regularly handles gun cases in the state and is committed to guiding you through the legal process. We focus on defending your rights and working towards the best possible outcome in your situation.