Dispose Unregistered Firearms in Surrey - Bylaw Guide
In Surrey, British Columbia, owners who need to dispose of an unregistered firearm must follow public-safety steps and coordinate with local enforcement to reduce risk and avoid criminal liability. This guide explains the common options for surrendering or disposing of firearms in Surrey, which offices are typically involved, safe transport and handling basics, and practical next steps for owners. Where official pages do not list specific fines, fees or deadlines, this article notes that fact and points you to the enforcing authority for current instructions.
Options for disposing of an unregistered firearm
- Arrange surrender or handover to the Surrey Police Service or designated detachment; do not attempt to dispose of the firearm yourself.
- Call the non-emergency line or use the official contact page to schedule a surrender or to get instructions on safe transport.
- If a transfer to a licensed dealer is appropriate, follow federal licensing and transfer rules before delivery.
Penalties & Enforcement
The primary enforcement bodies for firearms in Surrey are the Surrey Police Service and City of Surrey bylaw officers where municipal restrictions apply. Criminal offences and registration requirements are governed by federal firearms law; municipal enforcement addresses public-safety and local bylaw issues. Specific fine amounts, escalations, and time limits are not specified on the cited Surrey Police Service contact page[1].
- Fines: not specified on the cited page.
- Escalation (first or repeat offences): not specified on the cited page.
- Non-monetary sanctions: seizure, police orders, and referral to Crown counsel or court processes may apply under federal or provincial law; specifics not specified on the cited page.
- Enforcer and complaints: Surrey Police Service handles firearms surrender and enforcement; contact via the official contact page for procedures and to report concerns.[1]
- Appeal/review: appeal routes for municipal orders or impoundment are not specified on the cited page; consult the enforcing office for timelines and procedures.
Applications & Forms
There is no specific City of Surrey form for surrendering an unwanted firearm published on the cited Surrey Police Service contact page; owners should contact the detachment to learn whether an appointment or written form is required[1].
How-To
- Contact the Surrey Police Service via their official contact page to ask for the correct surrender procedure and to arrange an appointment if required.
- Keep the firearm unloaded, secured, and in a locked container during transport; bring any documentation you have about ownership.
- Attend the arranged location and follow the instructions from officers or designated staff for handing over the firearm.
- Obtain any receipt or record the agency provides documenting the surrender for your records.
FAQ
- Can I drop an unregistered firearm at a city office?
- No. You must contact and follow the instructions of the enforcement agency; do not leave a firearm unattended.
- Will I be charged if I surrender an unregistered firearm?
- Surrendering a firearm to police for disposal is a safety-first option; specific charges or fines depend on the circumstances and applicable federal and provincial law and are not specified on the cited page.
- Do I need paperwork to surrender a firearm?
- Bring any ownership documents you have and follow the instruction of the detachment; the cited contact page does not publish a standard surrender form.
Key Takeaways
- Always contact the enforcing agency before moving or surrendering a firearm.
- Do not transport a loaded firearm; secure it and follow police directions.
- Request and keep any receipt or record when you surrender a firearm.
Help and Support / Resources
- Surrey Police Service - Contact and non-emergency reporting
- City of Surrey - Bylaw Enforcement
- RCMP - Firearms disposal guidance (Government of Canada)
- Government of British Columbia - Firearms information