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Firearm Licensing

Security

Security of firearms and ammunition is the responsibility of the certificate holder and it is a standard condition of certificates that adequate measures are taken.

The Chief Constable will not issue a certificate, or may consider action against an existing certificate holder, if storage provision is inadequate.

Guidance is provided by the Home Office in respect of security for firearms and this can be referred to by certificate holders. In general terms the police will apply this guidance in relation to the provision of secure storage.

As a guide:

• Gun Cabinets should meet BS 7558 standard or be equivalent and must be securely fixed to a solid surface in a dwelling. This is recommended as the basic level of security.
• Gun clamps are usually only acceptable for a single weapon, should conform to BS 3621 and be securely fixed as above.
• Ammunition for Section 1 firearms is to be securely stored separately.
• When transporting firearms appropriate measures must be taken to keep them out of sight and preferably secured with wire or chain. If unattended for a short period essential components (e.g. bolts etc.) should be removed. Vehicles should preferably be alarmed. If transported regularly a lockable container fixed to the bodywork is recommended. Ammunition should be kept separate.
• Enhanced security can be provided by additional measures in your home. An approved alarm system, five lever mortise locks, window locks and security lighting will all improve the overall security. These will be taken into account when assessing the level of security.
• Where firearms and / or security is shared those sharing must have appropriate authority to access the weapons. Where not all weapons are shared it will be necessary to restrict access to one person retaining the keys or having the guns wired / chained separately.