CRFSC Non-Restricted Storage Regulations 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A person inherits a non-restricted firearm and keeps it stored at home while waiting to obtain their PAL. What storage obligation do they have?
- They must store it safely according to the same regulations that apply to any non-restricted firearm (Correct answer)
- They have no obligation until they are licensed
- They must immediately surrender it to police
- They may store it any way they choose during the inheritance grace period
Correct answer: They must store it safely according to the same regulations that apply to any non-restricted firearm
Safe storage regulations apply to anyone in possession of a firearm, regardless of licensing status or how the firearm was acquired.
Question 2: Which of the following is NOT a recognized safe storage method for a non-restricted firearm when ammunition is accessible?
- Storing it in a locked vehicle in the driveway (Correct answer)
- Using a trigger lock with the key kept separately
- Storing it in a locked gun cabinet
- Removing and separately securing the bolt of a bolt-action rifle
Correct answer: Storing it in a locked vehicle in the driveway
A locked vehicle is not a recognized safe storage location for a firearm at a residence; proper indoor methods like trigger locks and locked containers are required.
Question 3: A non-restricted semi-automatic rifle cannot have a key part removed like a bolt-action can. How must it be stored when ammunition is accessible in the same area?
- With a trigger lock applied or stored in a locked container (Correct answer)
- With the magazine removed and stored separately
- With the safety switch engaged and barrel pointed downward
- Unloaded, with no further requirement
Correct answer: With a trigger lock applied or stored in a locked container
For semi-automatic firearms, removing a component is not an approved alternative, so a trigger lock or locked container must be used when ammunition is accessible.
Question 4: What is the maximum legal consequence for failing to safely store a non-restricted firearm in Canada?
- A summary conviction offense punishable by up to two years less a day (Correct answer)
- A fine of $500 with no criminal record
- Loss of PAL for one year only
- A warning letter from the Chief Firearms Officer
Correct answer: A summary conviction offense punishable by up to two years less a day
Unsafe storage of a firearm is a criminal offense in Canada that can result in a summary conviction with imprisonment of up to two years less a day.
Question 5: A gun owner stores a non-restricted rifle unloaded in a hard-sided locked case. The key is kept in the same unlocked drawer as some rifle ammunition. Is this legally compliant?
- No, because the ammunition is accessible alongside the means to open the locked case (Correct answer)
- Yes, because the firearm itself is in a locked case
- Yes, because the ammunition is in a separate drawer from the firearm
- No, because hard-sided cases are not approved storage containers
Correct answer: No, because the ammunition is accessible alongside the means to open the locked case
If the key to the locked container is stored with accessible ammunition, the overall arrangement may be considered non-compliant because unauthorized access is too easy.
Question 6: Under Canadian safe storage law, can a non-restricted firearm be stored loaded under any circumstance?
- No, non-restricted firearms must always be stored unloaded (Correct answer)
- Yes, if the owner has a valid PAL and the firearm is in a locked room
- Yes, if the home has an active security alarm system
- Yes, during hunting season with a valid license
Correct answer: No, non-restricted firearms must always be stored unloaded
Canadian regulations require all non-restricted firearms to be stored unloaded; there is no exception that permits storing them loaded.
Question 7: A visiting hunter stays overnight at a friend's home and brings their non-restricted shotgun. Who is responsible for the safe storage of the firearm overnight?
- The visiting hunter, as the person currently in possession of the firearm (Correct answer)
- The homeowner, as it is on their property
- Both share equal legal responsibility under joint liability
- The Chief Firearms Officer of the province where the visit takes place
Correct answer: The visiting hunter, as the person currently in possession of the firearm
The person in possession of the firearm is legally responsible for ensuring it is stored safely, regardless of whose property they are on.
CRFSC Non-Restricted Storage Regulations 4
A person inherits a non-restricted firearm and keeps it stored at home while waiting to obtain their PAL.
What storage obligation do they have?