Can you own a gun in Canada?

Asked by: Jerrell Schuster  |  Last update: September 3, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (9 votes)

Anyone may possess a restricted firearm provided he obtains a “registration certificate.” A “firearms acquisition certificate” is a prerequisite for the registration certificate. Certain firearms, such as hunting rifles and shotguns, are not prohibited nor restricted.

Is it possible to own a gun in Canada?

Canadians must be over 18 and pass a firearms safety course or the Canadian Restricted Firearms Safety Course to own a restricted firearm. Canadians aged 12-17 can get a minor's licence, allowing them to use non-restricted firearms like most rifles or shotguns for hunting or shooting competitions, and buy ammunition.

Can you keep a gun at home in Canada?

Yes. The Firearms Act and the Criminal Code of Canada do not specifically regulate that, so you are probably in the clear (if you are licensed, of course). You can carry it around your own property all you want, but I would make sure it's not visible by the public.

Can you own a gun for self defense in Canada?

No. Weapons for self defence are considered illegal. Possession of anything for self defence is considered intent and will land you in jail, this includes keys, knives, guns, or big sticks. Doesn't matter what it is, it becomes a weapon as soon as you possess it for the intention of defending yourself.

What weapons are legal in Canada?

Legal Weapons in Canada

Ordinary sporting and hunting rifles, airguns, and shotguns are typically classified as non-restricted firearms. There are physical characteristics that must be met, one example is that they have a total length of at least 660 mm.

Home Defense in Canada... How Far Can You Go (Legally)?

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Is it legal to carry a gun on you in Canada?

Buying or transporting a firearm without a PAL licence is a crime that carries a prison sentence. Concealed carry is prohibited outside of a lawful profession (e.g. security, trapping). Open carry of non-restricted rifles is only permitted on hunting grounds in accordance with the law.

Is it illegal to shoot airguns in your backyard?

Since 2010, air guns can also be used anywhere that is safe and the owner/tenant gave his permission. For example, the owner or tenant can shoot his air gun at his backyard, as long as he isn't committing a crime (if he is shooting late at night, he may be committing a crime if he is generating much noise).

Can I carry a taser in Canada?

Both tasers and stun guns are considered prohibited weapons, and possession and use of these items are fully banned under the Canada Criminal Code on Prohibited Weapons. Similarly, any item carried for the express purpose of self-defence is considered illegal in Canada.

Can I carry pepper spray in Canada?

As pepper spray falls under the definition of a prohibited weapon and the fact it can be used for self-defence purposes, Canadian law does not allow citizens to possess pepper spray. If you are found in possession of pepper spray, you can be charged with a criminal offence and will face severe punishments.

Can you carry a knife in Canada for self-defense?

In Canada with relation to knives and any other weapon, intent matters. If you are carrying the knife for the purposes of self-defense it is illegal. If you are carrying it for everyday utility purposes such as opening boxes or cutting fruit, you should be ok.

Can you carry a gun hiking in Canada?

In general, the only firearms allowed for wilderness protection are non-restricted rifles and shotguns. However, Canadian residents may be authorized to carry a handgun or restricted long gun for wilderness protection or for lawful occupational purposes if they: are licensed to possess restricted firearms.

Can you shoot on your own land in Canada?

Yes, no legislation places blanket restrictions on the required distance from a property line or on the calibre of the ammunition discharged on private property.

What disqualifies you from owning a gun in Canada?

Who is prohibited from getting a firearms licence (PAL)? Individuals who have been convicted of the following serious offences are prohibited from owning firearms: Offences involving violence or threats of violence: This category includes offences such as assault, robbery, and extortion.

Can you carry a gun on your own property in Canada?

are you in Canada? Yes, you can carry a pistol and shoot pests on your rural property in Alberta, Canada, but there are some restrictions. You must have a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and a restricted firearms licence (RPAL) to own a pistol.

How many rifles can I own?

Federal law does not limit the number of guns a person may buy in any given time period. However, federal law does require federal firearm licensees (“FFLs”) to report multiple sales of handguns to ATF and other specified law enforcement agencies.

What is legal for self-defense in Canada?

With the guideline clear that you are only able to pursue defensive action deemed reasonable to the circumstances, a person defending themselves cannot use lethal force. Rarely will lethal force be seen as a reasonable force in Canada. This not only applies to guns but any kind of lethal force.

Is bear spray legal to carry?

Bear spray is legal to own in California and the canisters can contain more than 2.5 ounces if the company that makes it registers it with the State as a pesticide. However, using bear spray on humans is illegal. But 2.5oz is the law for pepper spray with no exceptions.

Is dog spray illegal in Canada?

Legally Carrying Dog Spray and Protector Spray

In Canada, pepper spray is not allowed for use on people. However, dog spray and protector spray are legal and commonly used for protection against animals. Companies like SABRE create products such as the Protector Dog Spray.

What is the best thing to carry for self-defense?

The 10 Best Non-Lethal Self-Defense Weapons: Protect Yourself Safely
  1. Stun Guns. Stun guns are a popular non-lethal self-defense weapon that deliver a high-voltage shock to an attacker, temporarily incapacitating them. ...
  2. Pepper Spray. ...
  3. Personal Alarms. ...
  4. Tactical Pens. ...
  5. Kubotans. ...
  6. Self-Defense Keychains. ...
  7. Tasers. ...
  8. Expandable Batons.

Are rubber bullet guns legal in Canada?

Yes. The Byrna may be imported into Canada and may be purchased by Canadian citizens and residents. Is the Byrna considered a firearm in Canada? Yes.

Is the AA 12 shotgun legal in Canada?

First off, effective May 1st, 2020 all shotguns larger than 10 gauge was absolutely prohibited. The May 1st ban was very poorly worded and specifically prohibited all firearms with a bore of 20mm or greater. The nominal bore of both 12 and 10 gauge shotguns is less than 20mm.

Can you own a pellet gun in Canada?

Airsoft, bb, pellet or airguns that resemble a regulated firearm and are below the velocity and power necessary to cause serious bodily harm (e.g., 366fps for airsoft, 246 for BB and 2.71 joules for paintball) are already “replica firearms” and cannot be transferred, imported or sold in Canada.

Is it legal to walk around with an air rifle?

If you're carrying an air gun in public, you must have a legitimate reason for doing so. And this does not include trying to look like your favourite action hero. Genuine reasons for carrying an air gun in public include travelling to or from a gun club, shooting competition or air gun shop.

Is a 22 air rifle considered a firearm?

Note that air rifles are not considered “firearms” in California.