A firearm is any type of gun or similar barrelled device from which any shot, bullet or other projectile can be discharged and that is capable of causing bodily injury or death and includes a Prohibited and/or Restricted Firearm.
Discharge of Firearms Bylaw
Bylaw 2020.91 regulates the discharge of firearms in the Township of Ramara.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Gun Club or Shooting Range?
A bona fide gun club or range is registered and regulated by the Firearms Act, S.C.1995, c.39, and the use and location of which is permitted is in accordance to the applicable zoning bylaw, site plan control and building requirements and any other applicable federal, provincial and municipal laws. At this time there are no legal gun clubs or shooting ranges in Ramara.
What is a Private Gun Club or Shooting Range?
A private gun club or shooting range is a gun club or range that does not meet the requirements of a Gun Club or Shooting Range where an owner or any person discharges a firearm on a location or within a building that is designed or intended for the safe discharge, on a regular and structured basis, of firearms for the purpose of shooting at an object to be aimed in shooting practice, training or contest.
What is Considered Rapid Fire?
Rapid fire is considered as the firing of more than five consecutive shots from a firearm in rapid succession.
Does the Discharge of Firearms Bylaw Affect Hunters?
No, this bylaw does not affect lawful hunting that is permitted on land, with the proper permission from landowner, and with the appropriate hunting and firearm licences.
For information on hunting, hunting seasons or obtaining hunting licences, contact the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Can I Shoot on My Property and When Can I Shoot?
The discharge of a firearm, either on land with the permission from the landowner or within a building used as a Private Gun Club and Shooting Range, can only occur once every 30 days for no more than three consecutive hours. As well, no person shall discharge a firearm without having in their possession any necessary licences required in Ontario and Canada to permit them to carry and discharge a firearm.
- First offence is a $1,000 fine
- Second offence is a $2,000 fine
- Third and each subsequent offence is a $3,000 fine
What If I Want to Have a Turkey Shoot as a Fundraiser?
Any person can apply to the Clerk for an exemption permit that specifies the time-period for the exemption and any conditions set out by the Clerk and Council. Each request will be brought to Council who will grant or refuse the exemption request.
Who Do I Call If I Think Someone is Discharging Unsafely or Has Illegal Firearms?
Call the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) at 1-888-310-1122.
To file a complaint with Bylaw Enforcement, please use the following methods:
| Online |
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A written complaint can be completed using the Report a Concern Form. |
| A written complaint can be submitted to bylaw@ramara.ca. |
| Process |
|
Ramara Township will act on written complaints from the general public concerning alleged bylaw violations. Bylaw Enforcement Officers will offer assistance and direction with respect to bylaw concerns; however, no investigation will be initiated until the complaint is received in writing. Your personal information will be kept confidential; however, should the matter proceed to court, it may be necessary for you to attend as a witness to the violation. Upon receipt of the written complaint, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer will conduct an investigation to determine the validity of the complaint and the nature of the infraction relative to our existing bylaws. You will be advised accordingly whether or not the complaint is valid or alternatively refer you to another government agency to assist you. If the matter is rectified, the investigation will be closed. If the bylaw infraction continues, proper paperwork must be completed and individuals will be provided with time for compliance. If compliance can't be achieved through education and assistance from the Township, the Bylaw Enforcement Officer may undertake legal action. |
Exemption Permit
Any person can fill out the Exemption Permit application in order to be exempted from the Discharge of Firearms Bylaw 2020.91 for a specified time-period. The application is sent to the Clerk who will present the request to Council within two Council meetings of the request. Council will then either grant or refuse the exemption. If Council grants the exemption, Council may also impose specific conditions.
Contact Us
Corporation of the Township of Ramara
2297 Highway 12, PO Box 130, Brechin, ON, L0K 1B0
T. 705-484-5374
E. ramara@ramara.ca
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