Ammunition Storage Laws in Canada: Complete Provincial Guide 2025

Last Updated: January 7, 2026

Proper ammunition storage is both a legal requirement and a safety imperative for Canadian gun owners. While federal regulations provide the framework, understanding provincial variations and best practices ensures you remain compliant while protecting your investment and keeping your household safe.

Quick Answer: Canadian Ammunition Storage Requirements

Federal Law Requires:

Store ammunition in a manner that is reasonably safe and secure
Prevent unauthorized access (especially by minors)
Take reasonable precautions against theft

What’s NOT Required by Law:

Storing ammunition separately from firearms
Specific locking mechanisms for ammunition
Ammunition safes or containers
Registration of ammunition quantities

Best Practice: Store ammunition in locked containers, separate from firearms, in a cool, dry location.

Federal Ammunition Storage Requirements in Canada

The Firearms Act: What It Actually Says

The Firearms Act and its regulations are surprisingly brief regarding ammunition storage. Unlike the detailed requirements for firearms, ammunition storage is governed by general principles of “safe and secure” storage.

Section 6 of the Storage, Display, Transportation and Handling of Firearms Regulations addresses ammunition indirectly by requiring that individuals:

Store safely and securely: Use reasonable measures to prevent unauthorized access
Prevent theft: Take precautions that a reasonable person would consider adequate
Protect minors: Ensure children and unauthorized persons cannot access ammunition

What This Means in Practice:

The law doesn’t specify:

What type of container to use
Whether locks are required
If separation from firearms is mandatory
Maximum quantities allowed
Inspection or reporting requirements

Important Legal Note: While separation of ammunition from firearms is widely recommended and considered best practice, it is not explicitly required by federal law. However, storing them together may complicate legal defense if theft or unauthorized access occurs.

RCMP Storage Recommendations

The RCMP Canadian Firearms Program provides guidance (not law) on ammunition storage:

Recommended Practices:

Store in original packaging or clearly labeled containers
Keep in locked cabinet, room, or container
Separate from firearms when possible
Control humidity and temperature
Maintain inventory for insurance purposes
Inspect regularly for deterioration

These are recommendations, not legal requirements, but following them demonstrates “reasonable precautions.”

Ontario Ammunition Storage Regulations

Provincial Framework

Ontario follows federal regulations exclusively—there are no additional provincial laws specifically governing ammunition storage.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act applies
No Ontario-specific ammunition storage requirements
Some municipalities have bylaws about firearm discharge, but not storage
Provincial offences courts enforce federal regulations

Best Practices for Ontario Residents:

Urban Storage (Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, London):

Store in locked containers to prevent theft in higher-density areas
Consider apartment/condo rules (may restrict quantities)
Use climate control for basement storage (humidity concerns)
Notify insurance company of quantities stored

Rural Storage:

Greater flexibility with storage locations
Consider fire safety (separate from main residence if quantities are large)
Protection from wildlife (bears, rodents)
Seasonal temperature considerations

Climate Considerations:

Hot, humid summers: Use desiccants, air conditioning
Cold winters: Avoid unheated garages or sheds
Spring flooding: Elevate storage above ground level

Common Ontario Storage Setups

Apartment/Condo:

Small lockable cabinet or safe
Under-bed storage containers with locks
Closet shelving with locking doors
Typical quantity: 500-1,000 rounds

Suburban Home:

Basement gun room with locked door
Steel cabinet or wooden cabinet with lock
Separate ammunition safe
Typical quantity: 1,000-5,000 rounds

Rural Property:

Dedicated outbuilding (climate controlled)
Large gun safe with ammunition storage
Locked room in basement or garage
Typical quantity: 5,000-20,000 rounds

Alberta Ammunition Storage Rules

Provincial Approach

Alberta has no provincial legislation beyond federal requirements. The province has a strong firearms culture and generally follows federal minimums.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act only
No additional provincial storage requirements
No quantity limits
No inspection regime

Alberta-Specific Considerations:

Climate Factors:

Extreme temperature swings (-40°C to +35°C)
Very dry conditions (use of desiccants less critical)
Avoid storage in unheated outbuildings in winter
Summer heat in attics can degrade ammunition

Rural vs Urban:

Calgary/Edmonton:

Similar to other Canadian cities
Locked storage recommended due to property crime rates
Apartment/condo restrictions may apply

Rural Alberta:

Most common: Large quantities stored in shops or outbuildings
Climate-controlled spaces preferred
Fire safety paramount (especially with reloading components)
Wildlife protection (rodents attracted to smokeless powder)

Recommended Storage Solutions:

Stack-On security cabinets ($200-500)
Military surplus ammo cans ($15-30 each)
Gun safes with ammunition compartments
Basement rooms with locking doors

British Columbia Ammo Storage Laws

Provincial Regulations

BC follows federal regulations without additional provincial requirements. However, some municipalities have bylaws worth noting.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act applies
No provincial ammunition storage law
Some municipal bylaws about quantities (rare)
Fire codes may apply to large quantities

BC Climate Considerations:

Coastal Regions (Vancouver, Victoria):

High humidity year-round (50-80%)
Corrosion risk for brass and components
Moisture control essential
Nickel-plated ammunition recommended
Use desiccants religiously

Interior BC (Kelowna, Kamloops):

Dryer conditions similar to Alberta
Temperature extremes less severe
Standard storage adequate

Northern BC (Prince George, Fort St. John):

Cold winters require indoor storage
Humidity moderate
Consider propane or electric heat for outbuildings

Storage Recommendations for BC:

High-Humidity Areas:

Use ammunition cans with rubber seals
Place silica gel desiccants in containers
Inspect quarterly for corrosion
Rotate stock regularly
Consider dehumidifier in storage room

Seismic Considerations:

Secure heavy safes and cabinets to walls/floor
Use shelving with lips to prevent ammunition falling during earthquakes
Avoid top-heavy storage arrangements

Quebec Ammunition Storage Requirements

Provincial Framework

Quebec has historically had additional firearms regulations, though most were harmonized with federal law. Currently, ammunition storage follows federal requirements.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act applies
No separate provincial ammunition storage law
Historical C-17 registration requirements no longer exist
Sûreté du Québec enforces federal regulations

Quebec-Specific Considerations:

Language Requirements:

Safety information should be available in French
Retailers must provide French documentation
No requirement for French-language labels on storage

Cultural Factors:

Strong hunting tradition in rural Quebec
Urban areas (Montreal, Quebec City) more restrictive culturally
Anglophones and Francophones have different firearms traditions

Climate Considerations:

Cold, snowy winters
Hot, humid summers
Indoor storage essential
Dehumidification important in summer

Storage Recommendations for Quebec:

Urban (Montreal, Quebec City, Laval):

Locked cabinets or safes required practically due to property crime
Apartment storage challenging
Quantities typically limited to 500-1,000 rounds
Insurance notification recommended

Rural Quebec:

Similar to other Canadian rural areas
Larger quantities common for hunting
Outbuilding storage acceptable if climate controlled
Community standards important

Prairie Provinces: Manitoba & Saskatchewan

Provincial Regulations

Both provinces follow federal regulations exclusively, with strong firearms cultures and practical approaches to storage.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act only
No provincial ammunition storage requirements
Large-scale storage common (farming/ranching communities)
Practical approach to enforcement

Manitoba-Specific Considerations:

Climate:

Extreme cold winters (-40°C common)
Hot summers (+35°C possible)
Moderate humidity
Indoor storage essential in winter

Winnipeg vs Rural:

Urban: Standard locked storage
Rural: Outbuilding storage common
Indigenous communities: Traditional uses respected

Storage Recommendations:

Heated garages or basements preferred
Military ammo cans excellent for bulk storage
Avoid unheated sheds in winter
Summer storage less problematic than coastal areas

Saskatchewan-Specific Considerations:

Climate:

Very cold winters
Dry conditions year-round
Hot summers
Less humidity concern than eastern Canada

Urban (Regina, Saskatoon) vs Rural:

Urban: Similar to other prairie cities
Rural: Large quantities stored commonly
Farming operations often store significant amounts
Gopher/pest control means high .22 LR consumption

Storage Solutions:

Shop or garage storage common
Large safes or cabinets
Basement rooms with locking doors
Fire safety important (grain dust, fuel nearby)

Atlantic Provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland

Regional Approach

All Atlantic provinces follow federal regulations without additional provincial requirements. Maritime culture includes strong hunting traditions.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act applies
No provincial ammunition storage laws
High humidity in all provinces
Hunting tradition means significant ammunition storage

Climate Considerations Across Atlantic Canada:

Humidity:

Year-round moisture concerns
Coastal areas especially problematic
Fog and salt air accelerate corrosion
Dehumidification essential

Temperature:

Moderate winters (compared to prairies)
Cool summers
Indoor storage recommended
Basements often damp

Storage Recommendations for Atlantic Provinces:

Coastal Areas:

Use military ammo cans with seals
Multiple desiccant packets per container
Inspect every 3-4 months
Nickel-plated or polymer-coated ammunition preferred
Avoid dirt floor basements for storage

Rural vs Urban:

Rural: Larger quantities, hunting focused
Urban (Halifax, St. John’s, Moncton): Smaller quantities
Island locations (PEI, Newfoundland): Special humidity concerns

Province-Specific Notes:

New Brunswick:

Strong Acadian hunting culture
Both French and English-speaking communities
Moderate climate
Standard storage practices effective

Nova Scotia:

Coastal humidity highest in Atlantic Canada
Salt air corrosion significant
Inland areas better for storage
Consider climate-controlled spaces

Prince Edward Island:

Small firearms community
High humidity
Limited local retail (order online)
Store indoors exclusively

Newfoundland and Labrador:

Extreme variation: coastal vs interior
Labrador has extreme cold
Newfoundland has high humidity
Hunting tradition very strong
Large quantities common (caribou, moose hunting)

Northern Territories: Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut

Unique Considerations

Northern territories follow federal regulations but face unique challenges due to extreme climate, remote locations, and subsistence hunting needs.

Key Points:

Federal Firearms Act applies
No territorial ammunition storage laws
Firearms essential for safety and subsistence
Large quantities stored due to shipping costs and availability

Climate Challenges:

Extreme Cold:

Winters: -40°C to -50°C common
Permafrost affects foundation storage
Indoor storage mandatory
Ammunition performs well in cold (better than heat)

Short Supply Season:

Summer/fall shipping only in some areas
Annual or semi-annual bulk orders
Quantities: 5,000-20,000 rounds not uncommon
Shipping costs necessitate bulk buying

Storage Recommendations for Northern Canada:

Whitehorse/Yellowknife/Iqaluit:

Indoor storage in heated spaces
Large safes or locked rooms
Humidity usually not an issue (dry cold)
Fire safety important (heating systems, fuel)

Remote Communities:

Order annually during barge/air freight season
Store in secure buildings
Community storage sometimes used
Quantity limits impractical due to shipping

Indigenous Communities:

Subsistence hunting requires significant ammunition
Traditional uses respected
Federal regulations apply equally
Practical enforcement approach

Best Ammunition Storage Solutions for Canadian Homes

Entry-Level Storage (Under $200)

Best For: New gun owners, apartment dwellers, small collections

Options:

Stack-On Steel Security Cabinet ($150-200)
- 8-10 rifle capacity with shelf space
- Keyed lock
- Adequate for 500-1,000 rounds
- Easy to move
Military Surplus Ammo Cans ($15-30 each)
- .30 cal and .50 cal sizes
- Waterproof rubber gasket seal
- Stackable
- Excellent for bulk storage
- Can add small padlock
Plastic Storage Boxes with Locks ($30-60)
- Plano, MTM, or similar brands
- Weather-resistant
- Lightweight
- Good for range transport too

Setup Example:

3-4 ammo cans for different calibers: $60-120
Small cabinet for organization: $150
Desiccant packets: $15
Total: $225-285

Mid-Range Storage ($200-800)

Best For: Active shooters, multiple firearms, 1,000-5,000 rounds

Options:

Stack-On Convertible Gun Safe ($300-500)
- Holds rifles plus ammunition on shelves
- Combination or electronic lock
- Fire-rated models available
- Can bolt to floor/wall
Wooden Cabinet with Lock ($250-400)
- More attractive for living spaces
- Custom shelving possible
- Good for climate control
- Conceals storage better
Dedicated Ammunition Safe ($400-800)
- Specifically designed for ammunition
- Multiple compartments
- Fire-rated options
- Heavy-duty construction

Setup Example:

Gun safe with ammunition compartment: $500
Additional ammo cans for organization: $60
Dehumidifier/desiccants: $40
Total: $600

Premium Storage ($800-3,000+)

Best For: Serious collectors, competition shooters, reloaders, 5,000+ rounds

Options:

Large Gun Safe (20-40 gun capacity) ($1,200-3,000)
- Dedicated ammunition section
- Fire-rated (30-90 minutes)
- Electronic locks
- Interior lighting and organization
- Climate control options
Dedicated Storage Room ($1,000-5,000 to build)
- Separate locked room in basement
- Climate-controlled
- Custom shelving
- Dehumidification system
- Lighting and organization
Modular Safe System ($2,000-5,000)
- Multiple smaller safes
- Specialized for different purposes
- Flexibility in placement
- Professional installation

Setup Example:

Large gun safe with ammo storage: $2,000
Dehumidifier system: $200
Organizational shelving inside: $150
Inventory management: $50
Total: $2,400

RCMP Storage Guidelines and Compliance

What Constitutes “Safe and Secure” Storage?

While not legally defined, RCMP guidance and court cases provide insight:

Factors Considered:

Accessibility
- Can unauthorized persons access easily?
- Are minors in the household?
- Visitors’ access potential?
Theft Prevention
- Would a reasonable thief be deterred?
- Is location obvious or hidden?
- Are quantities attracting theft?
Safety Measures
- Locked containers or rooms?
- Separation from firearms?
- Fire safety considered?
Reasonable Precautions
- What would a reasonable, prudent person do?
- Proportional to quantity stored?
- Appropriate for living situation?

Compliance Checklist

□ Locked Storage: Container, cabinet, room, or safe with lock □ Access Control: Only licensed individuals have keys/combinations □ Separation: Ideally stored away from firearms □ Climate Control: Protected from extreme temperatures and humidity □ Fire Safety: Stored away from heat sources and flammables □ Documentation: Inventory maintained for insurance □ Inspection: Regular checks for deterioration or damage □ Labels: Containers clearly marked with contents and caliber □ Insurance: Homeowner’s policy notified of quantities

What to Do if RCMP Inspects

Your Rights:

RCMP cannot enter your home without warrant or consent
You can refuse entry without a warrant
Inspections are rare unless complaint triggers investigation

If You Consent to Inspection:

Be cooperative and polite
Show storage arrangements
Demonstrate locks and security
Explain your precautions
Document the interaction

Red Flags That Attract Attention:

Complaints from neighbors
Theft reports
Domestic incidents
Criminal charges
Child welfare concerns

Common Ammunition Storage Questions

Do I need to store ammunition separately from firearms?

Not legally required, but strongly recommended. Separation provides:

Additional safety layer
Better legal defensibility if theft occurs
Reduced fire risk
Easier organization

How long can ammunition be stored safely?

Modern non-corrosive ammunition stored properly can last 20-50+ years. Factors:

Cool, dry conditions: Longest life
Temperature stability: Critical
Humidity control: Prevents corrosion
Original packaging: Protects from handling

Can I store ammunition in my garage?

Legally yes, but not recommended:

Temperature extremes affect performance
Humidity fluctuates significantly
Security typically lower than inside home
Fire risk higher (vehicles, fuel, tools)

If garage storage necessary:

Use climate-controlled section
Lock in cabinet or safe
Elevate off concrete floor
Use desiccants religiously

What’s the best container for ammunition storage?

Top choices:

Military Surplus Ammo Cans: Best value, excellent seal
MTM Case-Gard Boxes: Organized, good labels, stackable
Original Factory Boxes: Adequate for short-term
Plano Field Boxes: Weather-resistant, handles
Gun Safes with Shelves: Best long-term solution

How much desiccant should I use?

General Rule: 30-60 grams per cubic foot of storage space

Small ammo can (.30 cal): 1-2 packets
Medium ammo can (.50 cal): 2-3 packets
Gun safe: 200-500 grams depending on size
Storage room: Commercial dehumidifier

Replace desiccants when:

Silica gel changes color (if indicator type)
Every 3-6 months in humid climates
Annually in dry climates

Can ammunition be stored on its side?

Yes, orientation doesn’t matter. However:

Vertical storage saves space
Horizontal stacking works fine
Avoid crushing weight on top
Keep organized for safety

What temperature range is safe?

Ideal: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) Acceptable: 0°C to 30°C (32°F to 86°F) Avoid: Below -40°C or above 50°C

Ammunition tolerates cold better than heat. Extreme heat can:

Degrade propellant
Affect primer sensitivity
Damage sealants
Increase pressure (dangerous)

Should I rotate my ammunition stock?

Best Practice: Yes, use FIFO (First In, First Out)

Benefits:

Ensures ammunition doesn’t age excessively
Identifies deterioration early
Maintains fresh stock for defense

How to Implement:

Date containers when purchased
Place new purchases behind old stock
Use oldest ammunition for practice
Keep newest for defensive purposes

Penalties for Improper Storage

Criminal Code Implications

Careless Storage of Ammunition (rare prosecution):

Related to broader firearm storage charges
Typically accompanies other offenses
More likely if child access or theft occurs

Possible Penalties:

Summary conviction: Fine up to $5,000 and/or 6 months imprisonment
Indictable offense: Up to 2 years imprisonment
PAL revocation possible
Prohibition order potential

Real-World Enforcement:

Standalone ammunition storage charges rare
Usually part of larger investigation
Civil liability in theft or accident scenarios
Insurance denial if storage negligent

Best Practices Summary

Essential Actions:

Lock it up: Always use locked storage
Separate from firearms: Different locations when possible
Control climate: Cool, dry, stable temperature
Use desiccants: Especially in humid regions
Inspect regularly: Quarterly at minimum
Maintain inventory: For insurance and organization
Follow manufacturer guidelines: Heed safety warnings
Inform household: Everyone knows location but not access
Update insurance: Notify company of quantities
Document everything: Photos of storage setup

By Province Quick Reference:

Province/Territory	Key Consideration	Storage Priority
Ontario	Humidity + urban density	Locked + climate control
Quebec	Humidity + urban regulations	Locked + French documentation
Alberta	Temperature extremes	Indoor + dry
BC Coastal	Very high humidity	Sealed + desiccants
BC Interior	Temperature swings	Indoor + moderate humidity control
Manitoba	Extreme cold	Heated space
Saskatchewan	Extreme cold + dry	Heated space + standard containers
Atlantic Provinces	Very high humidity + salt air	Sealed + regular inspection
Northern Territories	Extreme cold + bulk quantities	Heated + organized

Final Recommendations

For New Gun Owners:

Start with 2-3 military ammo cans: $50-90
Add small security cabinet when collection grows
Use desiccants appropriate for your climate
Inspect every 3-4 months

For Active Shooters:

Invest in quality gun safe with ammunition storage
Organize by caliber and purpose (practice vs defense)
Climate control essential
Annual inventory for insurance

For Serious Collectors/Competitors:

Dedicated storage room or multiple safes
Professional organization system
Climate monitoring equipment
Comprehensive insurance coverage

Universal Advice:

Follow the law (federal minimums)
Exceed minimums with common sense
Protect your investment with proper storage
Keep family and community safe

Questions about ammunition storage in your province? Contact your local Chief Firearms Officer (CFO) or the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program at 1-800-731-4000.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about Canadian ammunition storage laws and best practices. Regulations and interpretations may vary. Always verify current requirements with the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program and your provincial Chief Firearms Officer. This is not legal advice.