Legal Update - 30 June 2024
The Firearms Rules 1998 are amended from 5 August 2025, to:- increase the number of referees required in support of an application for the grant or renewal of a shotgun certificate from one to two (rule 5).
- replace the existing application form for a grant or renewal of a firearm or shotgun certificate (Schedule 1). The new form reflects the requirement for an application for a grant or renewal of a shotgun certificate to be supported by two referees and seeks information on the applicant’s neuro-developmental conditions and time spent abroad.
- replace the existing application form for registration as a firearms dealer or for a new certificate of registration as a firearms dealer (Schedule 5). The new form seeks information on the applicant’s neuro-developmental conditions and time spent abroad.
- enable chief officers to process applications that are made using the old forms that are to be replaced, provided that the application is received on or before 5th September 2025. It also provides that where an application is received for grant or renewal of a shotgun licence before 5th September 2025, the application only needs to be supported by one referee (that is, the old rule applies).
