Snapshot

• Implementation of the Gun Shows Regulations has been deferred until November 30, 2008
• Deferring implementation allows more time to assess how evolving changes to the Firearms Program will affect requirements and to ensure that processes for complying are as simple and as cost-effective as possible.
• There are other legal requirements that you must comply with to protect public safety when you participate in a gun show.

Firearms are exempt from the requirements of the Firearms Act if the Registrar of Firearms is satisfied that the firearms have been made incapable of discharging projectiles that can cause serious injury or death and therefore, no longer meet the definition of a firearm.

Implementation of the Gun Shows Regulations has been delayed until November 30, 2008. These regulations, pertaining to events where firearms are displayed, were significantly amended in November 2004, and had been scheduled to come into effect in November 2006. Deferring the implementation of the Gun Shows Regulations will provide more time to assess how evolving changes and proposed changes to the Canadian Firearms Program will affect requirements and processes. It will also allow more time to develop simple and cost-effective procedures for gun show sponsors and for Chief Firearms Officers responsible for approving gun shows.

In the meantime, you should remember that there are other legal requirements that you must comply with to protect public safety if your club or your members sponsor or take part in a gun show, even though the Gun Shows Regulations are not yet in force. For example:

• All firearms that you take to a gun show must be stored and displayed safely to deter loss, theft and accidents;
• The firearms may only be handled by, or under the direct and immediate supervision of, someone licensed to possess them; and
• If you buy or sell any firearms at a gun show, you must go through the regular transfer and registration process. The firearms need to be verified by an approved verifier unless they have already been verified and the Registrar is satisfied with the information.

To facilitate firearm transfers at a gun show, it is recommended that you notify your CFO about the gun show in advance. Transfers to or from a licensed firearms business can be submitted online.

More Information:
For general information, contact us at:
1 800 731-4000 (Toll Free)
E-mail: cfc-cafc@cfc-cafc.gc.ca

This bulletin is intended to provide general information only. For legal references, please refer to the Firearms Act and Regulations. Provincial, territorial and municipal laws, regulations and policies may also apply.
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