The rules about legally transporting a firearm in Canada

By LegalMatters Staff • There are strict regulations that Canadians must follow if they are transporting a firearm to a range or wilderness area in an automobile.

The steps involved depend on its classification, with most rifles and shotguns falling into the non-restricted weapon category.

“According to the Firearms Act, these weapons must be unloaded and kept in the trunk or storage container and kept out of sight,” says Ottawa criminal lawyer Céline Dostaler.

Most handguns are classified as restricted firearms, she says, explaining that these weapons be unloaded and that the bolt or bolt carrier be removed, if possible, for being transported.

“A secure locking device must be affixed that will prevent them from being used,” says Dostaler. “The owner must also obtain an Authorization to Transport certificate from their provincial or territorial Chief Firearms Office.”

If a vehicle is to be left unattended during the transportation period, such as at a restaurant, the firearm must be stored in a trunk or similar compartment that can be securely locked, she says.

“The only exception is if you are in a remote wilderness area and cannot lock your non-restricted firearms inside your vehicle,” says Dostaler. “The firearm still must be unloaded and kept out of sight with a secure locking device attached unless it is needed for predator control.”