Rules for Hunting in Canada

Before attempting to hunt in Canada, both residents of the country and outsiders should familiarize themselves with firearm and ammunition regulations, as well as several different rules that pertain to specific types of animals to be hunted. Learning these rules can help you avoid fines and promote safety while on the hunt.

  1. Licenses

    • A license to hunt in Canada is not a suggestion but a requirement. According to the Newfoundland government, a person must have the appropriate license for the animal to be hunted as well as an Outdoor Identification Card (or proof of completing a hunter education course).

    Firearm Restrictions

    • The government of Newfoundland states that all handguns and fully-automatic weapons are not allowed. They also put certain restrictions on rifles and shotguns. Rifles and shotguns with barrels shorter than 18 inches and an overall length less than 26 inches are prohibited. Rifles that fire .22 caliber rounds are also not allowed, as ammo must have a weight of at least 100 grain.

    Bringing Your Own Firearm

    • If entering Canada from another country with a firearm, additional paperwork is required. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a person can pass a Canadian Firearm Safety Course and pay a $60 fee to obtain a Possession and Acquisition License that lasts five years. Without this license, clearing customs will take longer, and a person will have to fill out another form and pay a $50 fee that is good for one year.

    Hunting Regulations

    • The government of Newfoundland states that hunting hours always last from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. People cannot fire guns within 3,280 feet of a school, playground or athletic field and within 985 feet of a person's home. Laws also forbid a person to hunt from a moving vehicle such as a snowmobile, automobile or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

    Small and Big Game Regulations

    • Regulations for big game hunters are more strict according to the Newfoundland government. A specific big game license must be obtained. Hunters cannot disturb big game while they are swimming, and metal tags and proof of an animal's sex must be maintained after a kill. For those interested in small game, an appropriate license can be obtained for hunting animals such as hare and waterfowl.

    Hunting and Wildlife Populations

    • Hunting laws are very similar between all the provinces of Canada, but all of them stress the importance of preserving wildlife populations while hunting. The Ministry of Natural Resources in Ontario states that hunting plays an important role in maintaining animal populations in specific habitats. Through constant monitoring, hunted species can be sustained according to the Ministry of Natural Resources.