Can Assisted Living Residents Own a Firearm?

Yes, assisted living residents can own a firearm. Rights provided under the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution aren’t affected by a change in living arrangements, subject to compliance with federal and state gun laws. However, assisted living facilities can legally prohibit firearms on their premises; many communities have no-weapon policies. When facilities allow residents to keep guns on-site, strict storage and control policies apply.

In states that allow firearm possession in assisted living, communities that allow residents to do so must follow stringent rules. For example, Pennsylvania’s facilities must store firearms in locked cabinets away from residents’ rooms and communal living areas. Staff must keep ammunition in separate locked cabinets, and only an administrator or designated person can hold cabinet keys. Residents can’t take weapons into communal spaces. California’s rules are similar.

Some states, such as New York and Alaska, outright ban firearms in assisted living residences. Laws keep fluctuating in New Jersey, which wants to prohibit weapons in long-term care communities. Seniors should check local laws to find out whether they can legally have firearms in assisted living.

Even when state law permits firearms in assisted living, facility policies may still prohibit residents from having firearms. Such facilities must have prominent signs notifying residents and visitors that they’re weapon-free environments. For example, Texas’ assisted living facilities must clearly display a providers’ bill of rights.

While this doesn’t mean residents can’t lawfully own firearms, they may not keep or carry them in many assisted living communities. In such cases, individuals should check state regulations concerning keeping weapons at another person’s home — often, it’s allowed as long as the other person is permitted to possess firearms.