Firearms Control Act

Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act no 60 of 2000)
Did you know?

The Firearms Control Act, 2000 (Act no 60 of 2000):

  • Helps the SAPS to effectively control firearms in South Africa;
  • It ensures that a person is competent to possess a firearm;
  • It promotes responsible firearm ownership.

When carrying a firearm in a public place, you must ensure that:

  • a handgun is carried in a holster or similar holder designed for the carrying of a handgun, or that it is attached to your person;
  • any other firearm is carried in a holder designed for the purpose, e.g. a gun bag;
  • it is completely covered and that you are able to exercise effective control over the firearm.

No person may be in possession of ammunition unless:

  • She/he holds a license for a firearm that can discharge the ammunition
  • Holds a permit to possess ammunition
  • Holds a dealer license, a gunsmith’s license, manufacturer’s license
  • Holds an import-export or in-transit permit

A person who holds a license to possess a firearm may possess 200 rounds of ammunition and 2400 primers for reloading for each licensed firearm. The person may buy more ammunition at an accredited shooting range and discharge them on the range. A person, who needs to possess more than 200 rounds of ammunition for specific reasons, may apply for an authorization from the Registrar.

Renewal of firearm licenses

Your firearm license must be renewed according to the following time table:

Birthday Renewal period
1 January – 31 March 1 January – 31 December 2005
1 April – 30 June 1 January – 31 December 2006
1 July – 30 September 1 January – 31 December 2007
1 October – 31 December 1 January – 31 December 2008

Remember!
A firearm can protect you if handled with care, but can turn out to be your worst enemy when handled negligently!

For further information on the Firearms Control Act, contact: (051) 507 6586/85/45

Read more about the Act.
 

 

 

 

P.O. Box 119
Bloemfontein
9300

Tel: +27 (0)51 409 8849/50 Fax: +27 (0)51 409 8866