What are the Gun Laws in Canada 2024?
Canada has some of the strictest gun laws in the world. The country has a dual system of government, where the federal government has constitutional authority over matters of defense and national security, which includes gun laws. Therefore, the Canadian government, specifically the Department of Justice and Public Safety, oversees and enforces gun laws across the country.
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General Overview
In 2024, the Firearm and Vehicle Trafficking Act (FAVTA) came into effect, strengthening Canada’s gun control laws. The law aims to prevent the trafficking of guns and vehicles across the Canadian border and to make sure that those who possess a firearm are authorized to do so.
Here are the key points to understand Canadian gun laws in 2024:
• Registered Firearms: Only registered firearms are legal in Canada.
• License Required: To possess, purchase, or acquire a firearm in Canada, a valid License to Possess and/or Acquire Firearm must be obtained from the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police).
• Background Check: A background check, also known as a peace bond, is required to ensure the applicant does not have a criminal record.
• Permitted Rifles and Shotguns: Rifles and shotguns with a minimum barrel length of 500mm, or 19.5 inches, are considered registered firearms and require a PAL (Possession and Acquisition License).
• Assault Weapons and High-Rate Firearms: Possessing, selling, importing, or manufacturing assault weapons and high-rate firearms (more than 5.5mm) is restricted.
Licensed Firearms
In Canada, licensed firearms are categorized into three categories:
• Restricted firearms: These are considered illegal to possess or sell except under specific circumstances. These include:
- Certain semi-automatic firearms
- Handguns with capacities over 10 rounds
- Assault weapons like the AR-15, AK-47, etc.
• Prohibited firearms: These are explicitly prohibited from possession or purchase in Canada, including fully automatic firearms, machine guns, and certain short-barrelled firearms.
• Non-restricted firearms: These are the most commonly used firearms in Canada, and they include rifles and shotguns with minimum barrel lengths of 500mm and 660mm, or 26 inches, for handguns.
Mandatory Storage and Handling Regulations
- Storage: Licensed gun owners must store their firearms in a safe, and the safe must be either:
- Locked using a key, combination lock, or biometric device (e.g., fingerprint) or
- Unlocked, but only by a person authorized to use the firearm
- Handling: Firearm enthusiasts must handle their firearms using appropriate safety procedures, as outlined in the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS).
- Minimum Age for Firearm Possession: It is illegal to possess, purchase, or acquire firearms for anyone under the age of 18, or for anyone under 15 who is not under direct adult supervision.
Prohibited Areas for Firearm Possession or Use
Firearms are prohibited or restricted in certain areas of Canada, including:
- National Parks: Fires and fireworks are prohibited in most national parks.
- Air and Marine Ports: Firearms must be declared when crossing ports by air or sea. Special permits are required in some cases.
- Provincial Parks: Fires and fireworks may be allowed in some provincial parks under specific conditions.
Penalties for Unlawful Firearms Possession or Use
- Summary Offenses: Fine of not more than $5,000 or imprisonment for not more than 18 months (or both).
- Indictable Offenses: Fine of not more than $25,000 or imprisonment for not more than 14 years, or both.
Conclusion
Canada has strict and comprehensive gun laws in 2024. These regulations are designed to prevent misuse of firearms and to minimize the risk of harm caused by firearms. If you are considering owning a firearm in Canada, it’s essential to understand and abide by these laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
