Common Questions and Answers about Firearms in Canada:

What is a firearm?

Any barreled weapon from which any shot,bullet or other projectile can be discharged and that is capable of causing injury or death to a person,includes any frame or receiver of such a barreled weapon and anything that can be adapted for use as a firearm.

IS a pellet gun a firearm?

NO,Unless the muzzle velocity is over 500 ft per second.

Will police have the right to enter my home at any time, just because I own a firearm?

No. There is alot of confusion out there about this topic.The police will still need a search warrant to search which they have to get from a Judge or Justice of the Peace.Before obtaining this warrant, they must show the judge grounds for the warrant.This is not easy to get...

What happens after January 1, 2001?

After January 1, you must continue to renew your Firearms Licence for as long as you own a firearm..

WHO must get a firearms licence?

Anyone who wishes to acquire a firearm, purchasing, inheriting, bartering.

How long will a firearm licence last?

5 years..

If I am in my vehicle how must I transport my shotgun or rifle?

If you are are with your vehicle, your firearm must be unloaded.

What modes of transport can I use to transport my firearms?

Any mode as long as you follow the carrier's restrictions. Airline,bus companies, couriers, and other companies all have their own rules.

What happens if i have to leave my vehicle unattended?

Your rifle or shotgun must be unloaded an locked in the trunk.

How long will the registration certificates be good for ?

The firearms registration will be good for a lifetime unless you modify the firearm(e.g., changing barrel length).

Can a friend borrow my firearm?

Your friend must have a valid F.A.C. of firearms Licence allowing him/her to possess that type of firearm, Jan 1,03 your registration must accompany the firearm.

Are there any further restrictions on storing my handgun at home?

YES, you may store your handguns in one of two ways:

1) Handguns must be unloaded, then made inoperable using a secure locking device, and locked in a secure container.

2) Handguns may be stored unloaded in a safe or vault.

What happens if my vehicle has no trunk ?

Then your firearm must be left unloaded an placed out of sight, behind seat or covered.

How can I display my shotguns and rifles at home ?

They are unloaded and made inoperable using a trigger lock,etc. Firearms must not be displayed with ammunition that is capable of being fired with that firearm.

Can I keep my handguns if I stop target shooting ?

To possess restricted firearms a person must justify his reason for keeping them. Those reasons include collecting, target shooting or if required, for occupation.