The firearm storage regulations are designed to ensure both the safety of gun owners and the security of the public. Understanding these laws is an essential part of owning a firearm. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to owning firearms, understanding the importance of proper firearm storage is key to staying informed and compliant.
In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know regarding storing your firearms legally and securely.
What Are The Different Classes of Firearms in Canada?
Before we can address how to store your firearms legally, it’s important to fully comprehend how Canada defines the different classes of firearms. Depending on the class of firearm you own will dictate the type of storage requirements you need legally.
Canada has three classes of firearms: Non-restricted, restricted, and prohibited.
Non-restricted Firearms
Non-restricted firearms include ordinary shotguns and rifles. This class is commonly used for hunters. Most common long guns are considered non-restricted. However, there can be exceptions.
Restricted Firearms
Restricted firearms refer to firearms that have been designed or adapted to be fired with a reduced length. Some common examples include guns that have a barrel less than 470mm in length or handguns that have been designed or adapted to fire 25 or 32-calibre cartridges.
Prohibited Firearms
Prohibited firearms include any handguns that have a barrel equal to or less than 105mm in length and any firearm that has been adapted from a rifle or shotgun by cutting the barrel length to less than 660mm. This class also includes handguns adapted to fire 25 or 32-calibre cartridges and automatic firearms that discharge only one projectile at a time.
Is There Any Difference Between the Firearms Storage Regulations And The Classes?
It’s important to understand that there are some variations in the law on how you can store your firearms depending on their class. Non-restricted firearms can’t be stored the same as restricted or prohibited firearms. The higher you go in class, the more secure you have to store your firearm.
However, all three classes of firearms must adhere to the following two conditions when being stored:
- They must be unloaded.
- Ammunition must be stored in a place where it is not readily accessible unless the ammunition is stored together with or separately from the firearm in a securely locked container that cannot be easily opened or broken into.
What Are the Storage Laws for Guns in Alberta?
To properly and legally store your firearms, the following conditions must be adhered to for the following classes.
Non-Restricted Firearm Storage
All non-restricted firearms must have a secure lock (such as a trigger or cable lock) and be secured in a gun cabinet, firearm safe, or safe room. Ammunition must be not easily accessible and stored in a secure container that cannot be easily opened or broken into and also locked away. For hunters, your firearm does not have to be secured with a trigger or cable lock if you are in a remote wilderness area where predators or other animals are present.
Restricted Firearm Storage
Restricted firearms also need to be rendered inoperable by means of a secure locking device and stored in a container, hunter safe, or room that is kept securely locked in a manner that cannot be easily opened or broken into.
There is a clause in the regulations that specifically mentions storing your firearms in a “vault, safe, or room that has been specifically constructed for the secure storage of firearms.” Ammunition also needs to be securely locked away in containers or safes that cannot be broken into or opened easily.
Prohibited Firearm Storage
Finally, for prohibited firearms, there are a lot more regulations on how these firearms can be stored. Similar to the other classes, the firearm needs to be rendered inoperable by a secure locking device and stored away in a container, firearm storage, or room that cannot be easily broken into or opened.
If the prohibited firearm is an automatic firearm with a removable bolt or a bolt carrier, the bolt or carrier must be removed and stored in a separate room from where the rest of the firearm is stored. Ammunition still needs to be stored in a secure container that cannot be easily opened or broken into and placed in a room or hunter’s safe that has been specifically constructed for the storage of prohibited firearms.
Find The Best Firearm Storage in Edmonton
Investing in firearm safes or other forms of firearm storage is a smart decision since it not only ensures legal compliance but also prioritizes the well-being of your family, friends, and community. A secure firearm storage solution reduces the risk of accidents, theft, and unauthorized access, providing peace of mind while preserving responsible gun ownership values.
Here at Dial Locksmiths & Safeworld, we’re all about your safety. Our gun safes are designed with your security in mind, and we’re dedicated to making sure you have a safe place to store your firearms in Canada.
To learn more about our selection of firearm safes, call us at 780-420-6664 or contact us today!
