Canadian Firearm Classification — Non-Restricted, Restricted & Prohibited
Canada classifies all firearms into three categories under the Firearms Act and Criminal Code: non-restricted, restricted, and prohibited. Classification determines which licence you need, how you store the firearm, and how you can transport it. Misclassification is a criminal offence under Section 91 of the Criminal Code.
How Are Firearms Classified in Canada?
Classification is determined by barrel length, overall length, action type, magazine capacity, and specific Orders-in-Council. The RCMP Canadian Firearms Program (CFP) makes final classification decisions. Classifications can change via government Orders-in-Council, which occurred most recently in May 2020, reclassifying approximately 1,500 semi-automatic firearm models to prohibited.
What Is the Quick Classification Rule?
A quick classification guide: if the firearm has a barrel over 470mm (rifle) or 457mm (shotgun) and an overall length over 660mm and is not on any prohibited list — it is non-restricted. Handguns are restricted. Short-barrelled or automatic firearms are prohibited. When in doubt, contact the RCMP CFP reference service at 1-800-731-4000.
| Class | Licence | Storage Rule | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Restricted | PAL ($60) | Trigger lock OR locked container | Unloaded, no ATT |
| Restricted | RPAL ($80) | Trigger lock AND locked container | Unloaded + ATT required |
| Prohibited | Prohibited Licence (grandfathered) | Same as restricted | Very restricted |