Gun Laws in Ontario

Gun laws in Ontario are among the strictest in North America, reflecting Canada’s broader approach to firearms regulation. Unlike in some jurisdictions where firearm ownership is broadly accessible, Ontario residents must follow a highly regulated system that balances individual rights with public safety. Whether you are a hunter, sport shooter, or someone simply interested in understanding your legal responsibilities, it is essential to know how firearm laws work in Ontario. Failing to comply can lead to serious criminal charges, including mandatory minimum sentences for certain offences.

The Federal Role in Firearm Regulation

It is important to understand that firearm laws are governed primarily at the federal level through the Criminal Code of Canada and the Firearms Act. These laws apply across all provinces, including Ontario, but are enforced locally by police services such as the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and municipal forces like the Toronto Police Service (TPS).

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) administers the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP), which oversees licensing, registration, and classification of firearms. In Ontario, individuals must comply with these federal regulations, in addition to any provincial hunting or transport rules.

Firearm Classifications in Canada

In Canada, including Ontario, firearms are divided into three main categories:

• Non-restricted firearms: These include ordinary rifles and shotguns commonly used for hunting and sport shooting.
• Restricted firearms: Primarily handguns with shorter barrels and certain semi-automatic rifles. Ownership requires special licensing, and use is limited to approved shooting ranges.
• Prohibited firearms: Fully automatic weapons, many handguns with specific barrel lengths, and certain military-style rifles. These are generally illegal for civilian ownership, with limited exceptions for grandfathered owners.

Understanding these categories is crucial, as penalties for possessing or using firearms outside of their legal classification can be severe.

Licensing Requirements in Ontario

To legally own or acquire a firearm in Ontario, you must obtain a Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL). This requires:

• Completing the Canadian Firearms Safety Course (CFSC) for non-restricted firearms.
• Completing the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course (CRFSC) for restricted firearms.
• Passing background checks, which review criminal records, mental health history, and personal references.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, although minors can obtain a youth licence under specific conditions. The PAL must be renewed every five years, and firearm transfers or purchases cannot occur without one.

Storage, Transportation, and Use of Firearms

Ontario residents must comply with strict federal rules on storage and transportation:

• Storage: Firearms must be unloaded and either locked with a trigger lock or stored in a secure, locked container. Ammunition must be stored separately or locked.
• Transportation: Non-restricted firearms must be unloaded during transport, while restricted and prohibited firearms require additional permits, such as an Authorization to Transport (ATT).
• Use: Restricted firearms can only be discharged at approved shooting ranges. Non-restricted firearms may be used for hunting or target shooting in designated areas, provided provincial and municipal bylaws are followed.

Failure to follow these rules can result in charges such as unsafe storage or careless use of a firearm.

Recent Changes and Ongoing Debate

Gun laws in Ontario are shaped by federal initiatives, and recent years have seen significant changes. The federal government introduced a ban on over 1,500 models of “assault-style” firearms in 2020, prohibiting their use and future sale. Further proposed legislation aims to restrict handgun ownership in urban areas, giving municipalities the ability to regulate additional controls.

These changes have generated debate in Ontario, where rural communities often rely on firearms for hunting and sport, while urban centres express concern over gun-related violence. The law continues to evolve, and staying informed is critical for compliance.

Consequences of Violating Gun Laws in Ontario

Breaches of firearm regulations in Ontario can lead to severe criminal penalties, including:

• Unauthorized possession: Carrying a firearm without a valid licence can result in up to five years in prison.
• Unsafe storage: Improper storage of firearms or ammunition can result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
• Possession of a prohibited firearm: Can lead to lengthy prison sentences and mandatory minimum penalties.
• Use of a firearm in the commission of an offence: Carries some of the harshest penalties under the Criminal Code, including mandatory minimum jail terms.

These penalties demonstrate the seriousness with which Ontario and Canadian law treat firearm offences.

The Role of Provincial Regulations

While federal laws set the foundation, Ontario enforces additional rules through the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act for hunting-related firearm use. Hunters must obtain valid licences and follow strict seasonal and species-specific guidelines. Municipal bylaws may also restrict the discharge of firearms in certain areas, particularly within city limits.

The Importance of Legal Advice

Given the complexity of gun laws in Ontario, anyone facing firearm-related charges should seek legal representation immediately. Defending against these charges often involves examining whether police followed proper procedures, whether the firearm was correctly classified, and whether the accused held the necessary licences or permits.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you are facing firearm-related charges in Ontario, the consequences can be life-changing. A conviction can result in a criminal record, loss of your firearms, and even imprisonment. Contact us now to schedule a free, confidential consultation with De Boyrie Law.