Non-Restricted Firearms in Canada — Complete Guide
Non-restricted firearms are the most common category in Canada, covering most hunting rifles and shotguns. They require a non-restricted PAL ($60), have flexible storage rules (trigger lock OR locked container), and do not require an ATT for transport. A firearm is non-restricted if it is not classified as restricted or prohibited.
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Rifle Barrel | Non-restricted Threshold | Over 470mm |
| Shotgun Barrel | Non-restricted Threshold | Over 457mm |
| Overall Length | Non-restricted Minimum | Over 660mm |
| PAL Required | Type | Non-restricted ($60) |
| Storage Rule | Condition | Trigger lock OR locked container (one required) |
| Transport | ATT Required | No (unloaded only) |
| CFSC Required | For Non-restricted PAL | Yes |
What Firearms Are Non-Restricted in Canada?
Non-restricted firearms include most hunting rifles (bolt-action, lever-action, semi-automatic), most shotguns (pump-action, break-action, semi-automatic), and .22 rimfire rifles. Key exclusions include handguns (restricted), AR-15 style rifles (prohibited since 2020), and any firearm on any prohibited list by regulation.
What Makes a Rifle Non-Restricted?
A rifle is non-restricted if the barrel exceeds 470mm, the overall length exceeds 660mm, and it is not a semi-automatic centre-fire capable of accepting a magazine over 5 rounds by design. Examples: Remington 700 (bolt-action), Winchester Model 94 (lever-action), Ruger 10/22 (rimfire semi-auto).
How Must You Store Non-Restricted Firearms?
Non-restricted firearms must be stored unloaded. Apply either a trigger lock (cable lock or trigger guard lock) OR lock the firearm in a secure container, room, or vault. Only one condition is required. Ammunition may be stored in the same locked area. This is significantly less strict than restricted ("AND" rule).