Free Nova Scotia Gun / Firearm Bill of Sale
Firearms sales in Nova Scotia are governed by the federal Firearms Act, not provincial motor vehicle law. Both buyer and seller must hold valid Possession and Acquisition Licences (PAL). Non-restricted firearms (most rifles and shotguns) can be transferred privately without RCMP registration. Restricted firearms (most handguns) must be transferred through a Registrar and the transfer registered with the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program.
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Nova Scotia Gun / Firearm Bill of Sale — What You Need to Know
Tax Details
GST/HST may apply on firearms sales if the seller is a GST registrant. Private individual-to-individual sales are typically exempt from sales tax.
Exemption: Immediate family member transfers (spouse, child, parent, sibling) may qualify for an HST exemption with a sworn statutory declaration. Gifts between qualifying relatives also qualify.
Inspection Requirements
No safety inspection is required for private firearm sales, but both parties must comply with the Firearms Act (Canada).
Nova Scotia Gun / Firearm Sale — Step-by-Step Checklist
- Verify the buyer has a valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) — ask to see it.
- Record the firearm's make, model, calibre/gauge, and serial number on the bill of sale.
- For restricted firearms: contact the RCMP CFP (1-800-731-4000) to register the transfer.
- For non-restricted firearms: transfer is private, no RCMP notification required.
- Both parties sign the bill of sale; seller retains a copy for at least 10 years.
- Confirm the firearm is unloaded and safely transported per the Firearms Act.
Common Pitfalls
- Selling to a buyer without a valid PAL — this is a federal criminal offence for both parties.
- Forgetting to register the transfer of a restricted firearm with the RCMP CFP — mandatory by law.
- Not recording the serial number on the bill of sale — essential for police verification.
- Prohibited firearms cannot be transferred privately under any circumstances in Canada.
Pro Tip
Both parties should contact the RCMP Canadian Firearms Program (1-800-731-4000) if there is any uncertainty about classification or transfer requirements. Errors in firearm transfers carry serious federal criminal consequences.