Firearms cases can involve the Criminal Code, Firearms Act and regulations at the same time. The charge may turn on the classification of the item, licensing or registration status, knowledge and possession, storage or transport conduct, and the context in which the weapon was found.
Primary legislation and official process sources checked October 5, 2026. Criminal law and court procedure can change; verify the current source before relying on a provision or deadline.
Unauthorized possession
Section 91 addresses possession of firearms and certain prohibited or restricted weapons or devices without required authorization.
- licence
- registration where required
- knowledge and possession
Possession in a dangerous context
Other Code provisions can address possession for a dangerous purpose, concealed weapons, possession in motor vehicles or possession contrary to an order.
- dangerous purpose
- concealed weapon
- prohibition order
Storage and transport
Regulatory requirements can create separate issues from the core possession offence.
- storage
- transport
- ammunition
Search and seizure
Firearm investigations often involve warrants, vehicle searches, home searches or seizure powers that can be challenged under the Charter where appropriate.
- warrant
- vehicle
- residence
Bail and prohibition orders
Current bail rules include firearm-related reverse-onus categories, and conviction can result in mandatory or discretionary weapons prohibition orders depending on the offence.
- reverse onus
- release conditions
- weapons prohibition
Official and authoritative sources
- Justice Canada — Criminal Code
- Justice Canada — Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
- Justice Canada — Firearms Act