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Millions of Americans take to the streets with guns in their cars every day. While that might not be a concern in individual states, a driver’s destination could land them in hot water with the authorities. As such, drivers might wonder whether an employer can keep a gun owner from leaving their firearm in their car on company property. 

Your employer may keep you from leaving a gun in your car on company property

In short, yes. With a caveat. For instance, in New York, a company can enforce “parking lot gun laws” and restrict employees from keeping guns in their cars. However, those parking lots must be on private, company-owned property. In addition to New York, businesses in California, Alaska, and Hawaii can prohibit you from keeping a gun in your car in a company parking lot. 

On the other hand, law-abiding gun owners across the border in New Jersey are protected by state laws, per GovDocs. New Jersey isn’t alone, either. The Garden State is one of over two dozen states with laws banning parking lot gun restrictions.

However, these aren’t the only options. In states like Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Virginia, state laws don’t address gun storage in workplace parking lots. As such, a company may reprimand or terminate an employee for violating a policy, but that’s about it. You’ll likely have to comply with company policies on the subject to avoid issues, per NOLO.  

Keep in mind that if you commute to another state for work, things change. Understandably, you’re bound by the laws of the state where you work. So, if you drive into California from Arizona, your employer can enforce regulations preventing you from keeping a gun in your car on company property. 

In other cases, the type of business might prohibit you from carrying a firearm. For instance, Texas gun owners can enter a building with a concealed handgun. However, if that property generates 51% or more of its revenue from alcohol sales, it’s a no-go zone for guns.

It’s prudent, too. Alcohol lowers inhibitions. That’s not exactly something you want with a room full of armed drinkers. It’s a violent crime waiting to happen. However, a 51% sign doesn’t typically prevent a patron or employee from leaving a gun secured in their car.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with expertise covering everything from sports cars and electric motorcycles to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He also studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC). When he’s not working, you can find Erik on his motorcycle or out for a spirited drive.