How To Transport Your Guns Legally

"Illinois State Treasurer, Judy Baar Topinka and the Il State Police along with the Il Conservation Police support firearm safety at the Illinois State Fair".

CPOs statewide are often asked to explain the laws regarding the legal transportation of firearms in the state of Illinois. Changes in gun laws and the penalties associated with the laws, along with growing public support for stricter gun regulations has got the interest of many sportsmen around the state. CPOs statewide support Illinois citizens' right to possess firearms and strive to protect these rights through teaching and education provided in a variety of Safety Classes and publications.  Our stance on firearms is as simple and to the point as the Wildlife Laws that address the topic...safety, common sense, and the extra time to ensure that both are always followed. The transportation laws are simple:

• You must be in possession of your valid F.O.I.D. (Firearm Owner's Identification) card obtained through the IL State Police.
• The firearm must be completely unloaded.
• The firearm must be completely enclosed in a case designed to carry a firearm.

      Although the transportation laws do not effect sportsmen any differently than they have in the past, there is now more of nationwide emphasize on firearms and firearm safety. If a sportsman follows these simple rules in Illinois and encourages others to participate we will all be able to enjoy hunting and other activities involving firearms for many years to come.

     Other questions associated to firearms transportation regards the placement of the firearm and ammunition within the vehicle or conveyance (ATVs, snowmobiles, farming equipment, boats, planes, horses, etc). If these three laws are all followed the firearm can be anywhere in or on the vehicle. The ammunition can be placed anywhere in the conveyance including on your person, or in the firearm case...but not in the firearm. It is important to remember common sense at this point, and remember where you may be located, or where your conveyance may be operated after your weekend hunting trip. A CPO in the field will treat a cased firearm located beside you on the passenger seat differently than a municipal police officer during a routine traffic stop. Remember using common sense can avoid a very awkward situation for yourself and any family members/passengers who may accompany you!

     Another question asked by sportsmen deals with the punishments for violating the firearm transportation laws. For example a common what if question: I forget to completely zip the gun case after hunting will I be charged with a felony...NO. A provision in the Criminal Code provides an exemption for licensed hunters, trappers, or fishermen while engaging in those activities from being charged with a felony in that situation. You may be charged with a Class B misdemeanor under the Wildlife Code punishable by a fine up to $1500 and/ or up to 6 months in jail. The firearm is subject to confiscation at the time of the offense and possible court sanctioned forfeiture following any future court proceedings.

     We are often asked to define a "firearm case".  Definition as follows: a container specifically designed for the purpose of housing a firearm or bow and arrow device which completely encloses it by being zipped, snapped, buckled, tied, or otherwise fastened with no portion of the firearm or bow exposed. A simple cloth sock type case with a tie at the end, all the way up to a metal type case with a lock used for airline travel will meet the firearm case requirements to transport in the state of Illinois. A padlock which locks the cables of a bow making it nonfunctional also is accepted in place of a case. 

     All firearms should be handled with care and respect, and every firearm should be treated as if it were loaded. Take the time to become familiar with the firearm before taking it a field, go to a local range accompanied by someone experienced with the firearm. Rushing and lack of preparation creates a dangerous situation for not only the firearm owner, but everyone involved. Remember CPOs teach and encourage safety and common sense with all firearms at all times, we ask that you participate in the transportation laws and basic firearm safety and help educate others by example, to ensure that all everyone has a safe and enjoyable hunting season! 

• You must be in possession of your valid F.O.I.D. (Firearm Owner's Identification) card obtained through the IL State Police.
• The firearm must be completely unloaded.
• The firearm must be completely enclosed in a case designed to carry a firearm.

Article by Southern County Conservation Officer Steve Vasicek and Southern CPO Wichern