Gun Safes Ireland & Gun Security Regulations

In Ireland, gun safe regulations are governed by the Firearms Act and specific guidelines set by the Garda Síochána (Irish Police). Here are the key points regarding these regulations:

Firearm Storage Requirements

• Every firearm owner must possess a firearm certificate. Part of the conditions for this certificate includes secure storage of the firearm when not in use​ 

• Firearms must be stored in a gun safe that meets European standards (e.g., EN1143-1 for safes, EN14450 for cabinets). These standards ensure the safes are tested for burglary resistance using specified methods and tools.
• The safe should ideally be certified to at least Grade 0 of the EN1143-1 standard or be an approved cabinet under EN14450​ 

• The gun safe must be securely bolted to a solid structure such as a wall or floor, making it difficult for unauthorized removal.It should be placed in a location within the residence that is not easily visible or accessible to non-authorized individuals​ 

Separate Ammunition Storage:

• Ammunition must be stored separately from firearms, ideally in a locked compartment within the gun safe or in a separate locked container​

Garda Inspections and Compliance

1. Initial Inspection:

• Before issuing a firearm certificate, the Garda may inspect the applicant's premises to ensure that the firearm will be stored securely and in compliance with the regulations.
• The inspection includes verifying that the gun safe meets the required standards and is properly installed

1. Ongoing Compliance:

• The Garda have the authority to conduct follow-up inspections to ensure continued compliance with storage regulations.
• Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in the revocation of the firearm certificate and possible legal consequences​

Specific Storage Guidelines for Different Firearms

1. Handguns:

• Handguns must be stored in a safe with higher security standards due to their smaller size and higher risk of theft.

1. Rifles and Shotguns:

• These can be stored in a gun cabinet that meets EN14450 standards but still needs to be securely fixed and comply with all other storage requirements.

Legal Penalties

• Non-compliance with firearm storage regulations can lead to significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and revocation of the firearm certificate

For detailed information, you can refer to the official Garda Síochána website and relevant sections of the Firearms Act in Ireland.