𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒃𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘

CFP mailed a letter to businesses informing them of changes that are now in force:

Authorization to transfer a cartridge magazine to individuals (subsection 25(1) of the Firearms Act)

An individual may transfer cartridge magazine that is not deemed prohibited only if the transferee possesses a valid firearms licence.

Magazines may not be acquired during the licence “extension period” (subsection 64(1.2) of the Firearms Act)

Following the expiration of a firearms licence, a licence holder may not acquire cartridge magazines during the extension period (six months) and may only acquire cartridge magazines once the licence is renewed.

1. Does this apply to business to business transfers as well? We understand that it specifies individuals, but some want to confirm that this does not apply to a business transferring to another business (BFL to BFL)

The new licence requirement for the transfer of cartridge magazines applies only to transfers to individuals. It does not apply to business to business transfers.

2. How are businesses to validate the license with online sales?

While it would be for each business to determine, it would be expected that businesses could rely on platforms and processes currently used to validate licences for the online sales of ammunition.

3. Does this apply to cartridges/magazines for airguns or pellet guns? Both over and under 500fps.

The new requirements apply only for cartridge magazines for firearms. Therefore they apply to airguns/pellet guns that, based on their technical capabilities, meet the definition of a firearm for the purposes of the Firearms Act and the Criminal Code and require a firearms licence to purchase. Magazines for airguns and pellet guns that are not considered to be firearms are not subject to this licence requirement (provided by DoJ).

4. Do businesses have to validate these licenses online and get a reference number?

There is no requirement to obtain a reference number. Section 25(1) of the Firearms Act requires the transferee to hold a valid firearms licence in order for the transfer to be lawful. Businesses are to confirm that the individual transferees (buyers, etc.) are in possession of a valid firearms licence.

5. Do businesses have to record any of these transactions?

Businesses are not required to maintain records of these transactions.

Director – Canadian Firearms Program