Restricted Firearms Legal Rules for RPAL Holders in Canada
Restricted firearms come with the most comprehensive legal obligations. RPAL holders must store restricted firearms with both a trigger lock AND in a locked container, transport them only to authorized locations with a valid ATT, discharge them only at licensed ranges, register every restricted firearm, and keep their RPAL current.
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Licence Required | Type | RPAL ($80) |
| Registration | Required | Yes — all restricted firearms |
| Storage | Rule | Trigger lock AND locked container (both) |
| Transport | ATT Required | Yes |
| Discharge Location | Restriction | Licensed range only (generally) |
| Handgun Sales | Status | Frozen — Bill C-21 (Nov 2022) |
| Bill C-21 | Restriction | No new handgun acquisitions for individuals |
What Are All the Legal Rules for Restricted Firearms?
Restricted rules: (1) hold a valid RPAL, (2) register every restricted firearm with RCMP, (3) store with trigger lock AND in a locked container always, (4) transport only to authorized destinations with valid ATT, (5) discharge only at licensed ranges (for handguns), (6) comply with Bill C-21 handgun freeze on sales/purchases, (7) keep all documentation available for inspection.
What Happens If You Store a Restricted Firearm Incorrectly?
Improper storage of a restricted firearm is a criminal offence under Section 86 of the Criminal Code. Consequences can include: criminal conviction, mandatory prohibition order (cannot own firearms), and PAL revocation. A common compliance failure is having a trigger lock but no locked container — both conditions are legally required simultaneously.
What Must You Do If Your Restricted Firearm Is Lost or Stolen?
Report the loss or theft of a restricted firearm to both the RCMP (1-800-731-4000) and local police within 24 hours of discovering it is missing. Provide the serial number, make, model, and registration certificate number. Failing to report a missing restricted firearm is an offence.