Changes to RPAL Authorization To Transport
Ch, ch, ch, chaaanges…
If you took your RPAL with us before the last lockdown you may have missed the update to regulations affecting Authorization To Transport since you took the course. Below, we’ll take a look.
Bill-C71
Since Bill C-71 was ratified and came into law, the latitude of “transport” attached to your license has decreased. As always, you should regularly update your knowledge directly from the source, the RCMP: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/en/firearms/bill-c-71-need-know
Before Bill C-71 your RPAL had more Authorization to Transport (ATT) attached to it automatically when you received your license. Now, you still have some Authorizations attached to your license but for all other reasons you have to request an authorization from the Provincial Chief Firearms Office.
Prior to the update, an RPAL’s attached ATT included:
1. Transport of restricted firearms to any licensed range for target shooting
2. Transport of restricted firearms to a port of exit, in order to take them outside Canada and from a port of entry.
3. Transport of restricted firearms to and from a gun show.
4. Transport of restricted firearms to and from a business that holds a license authorizing it to repair or appraise prohibited or restricted firearms.
5. Transport of restricted firearms to and from any place a peace officer, firearms officer or chief firearms officer is located for verification, registration or disposal in accordance with the Firearms Act and Part III of the Criminal Code.
Now, after the update, an RPAL’s attached ATT includes:
1. Transport of restricted firearms to any licensed range for target shooting
2. Transport of restricted firearms home from the place of purchase
If you wish to transport your restricted firearms for any purpose other than going to a shooting range or club, you must now apply for a specific Authorization to Transport (ATT).
Ultimately, these changes do limit you for repair or sale, but don’t really affect your day to day use of Restricted Firearms, since you’ll most often be taking it to the range.
Requesting an ATT from the CFO:
Remember, if you’re doing anything that isn’t an ATT attached to your RPAL you’ll need to call into the Chief Firearms Office (CFO) and request an ATT. This process doesn’t take long. The longest part will be waiting on hold to get to someone to talk to. Once your call has been answered just ask for an ATT for whatever you need and after a few simple questions (like when and how long you need to transport firearms for, and where you want to take them), you will have your ATT emailed to you.
You can reach the CFO at 1-800-731-4000 and follow the prompts or email them at CFOON@cfp-pcaf.ca
Eugene Atget, Cour, rue de Valence, 1922, printed 1956
