Crossbow permits and licenses Canada

Navigating the regulations around crossbows in Canada can seem complex, as rules are set at both the federal and provincial/territorial levels. Understanding crossbow permits and licenses Canada is crucial for anyone looking to purchase, possess, or hunt with a crossbow legally and responsibly.

At Crossbow Shop Canada, we’re dedicated to helping you understand these requirements so you can enjoy your passion for crossbows with peace of mind.

Federal Classification of Crossbows in Canada

Under federal law, the good news for most crossbow owners is that crossbows are generally NOT classified as firearms by the Criminal Code of Canada or the Firearms Act. This means:

• No Firearms License (PAL/RPAL) Required for Most Crossbows: You do not need a Possession and Acquisition License (PAL) or Restricted PAL (RPAL) to purchase or possess a standard crossbow.
• No Registration Required: Crossbows do not need to be registered with the RCMP.
• Age Restriction: While no license is required, federal law dictates that you must be 18 years of age or older to acquire a crossbow.

However, there are important exceptions to this general rule:

• Prohibited Crossbows:
  • Crossbows designed to be shot with one hand (e.g., pistol crossbows).¹
  • Crossbows with an overall length of 500 mm (approximately 19.68 inches) or less.
  • These types of crossbows are prohibited in Canada, and it is illegal to possess them.
• High-Velocity Barrelled Crossbows: If a crossbow has a barrel and launches projectiles at a muzzle velocity exceeding 152.4 m/s (500 feet per second), it might be considered a firearm, potentially requiring a license. However, most commercial hunting crossbows do not fall into this specific niche due to barrel design.

Provincial/Territorial Hunting Licenses and Regulations

While federal law governs ownership, hunting with a crossbow is regulated at the provincial and territorial level. This is where most of your crossbow permits and licenses Canada considerations will come into play.

Every province and territory has its own set of rules regarding hunter education, licensing, hunting seasons, and specific equipment requirements (like minimum draw weight, bolt length/weight, and broadhead diameter).

Here’s a general overview and some provincial highlights (always verify with current provincial regulations as these can change annually):

• Hunter Education: All provinces and territories require you to complete a recognized Hunter Education Program to obtain a hunting license. Some provinces may have additional bowhunter education courses or specific crossbow endorsements (e.g., Quebec’s Introduction to Hunting with Bow or Crossbow (IHBC) course, Nova Scotia’s Crossbow Hunter Education Course).²
• General Hunting License: You will need to purchase the appropriate provincial hunting license for the species you intend to hunt (e.g., deer, bear, moose). These licenses are typically specific to the game animal and often to a particular hunting season or zone.
• Specific Crossbow Permits (Historical Context):
  • Alberta: Historically, Alberta required a specific “crossbow permit” for hunting with a crossbow. As of May 28, 2025, the crossbow permit is no longer needed. However, those wanting to use a crossbow in archery-only seasons must still demonstrate medical justification, and the signed medical assessment form must be carried.
  • Other Provinces: Most other provinces do not have a separate “crossbow permit” beyond the general hunting license and, if applicable, a bowhunter education certification. Crossbows are often allowed during general archery seasons, and sometimes during firearms seasons.³

Key Provincial Examples (always check official provincial summaries):

• Ontario: Requires an Outdoors Card and hunter accreditation. Crossbows have minimum draw weight (e.g., 119 lbs) and bolt/broadhead specifications (e.g., 0.9 inches minimum width for broadhead with two cutting edges) for big game.
• Quebec: Requires a Hunter’s Certificate coded A (obtained via the IHBC course) to hunt with a bow or crossbow.⁴ Specific seasons and weapon types are outlined annually for different game and zones.
• British Columbia: Crossbows are generally permitted for hunting. You’ll need a BC hunting license. Regulations specify minimum draw weight, bolt length, and broadhead requirements.
• Alberta: As noted above, the specific crossbow permit has been removed as of May 2025, but medical justification for archery season use remains.⁵ You will need a Wildlife Identification Number (WIN) and appropriate hunting licenses for your target species.
• Nova Scotia: Requires a Wildlife Resources Card with Crossbow Hunting Certification. This often involves completing an online crossbow course in addition to a general hunter or bowhunter education.

Important Considerations for Canadian Crossbow Hunters:

• Broadhead Regulations: Almost all provinces have minimum broadhead cutting diameter and blade requirements (e.g., fixed blade with at least two cutting edges, minimum width). Always ensure your broadheads comply.
• Season Restrictions: Pay close attention to legal hunting seasons. Crossbows may be allowed only during specific archery-only seasons, or during general firearms seasons, depending on the province and species.⁶
• Transport Laws: Crossbows must generally be unloaded and often cased or covered during transport in vehicles, especially outside of legal hunting hours.⁷ Check provincial wildlife acts for specific transport regulations.
• Local Bylaws: Be aware that some municipalities or regions may have their own bylaws restricting the discharge or even possession of crossbows within city limits, often classifying them similarly to firearms for local purposes.

Navigating Regulations with Crossbow Shop Canada

Understanding the nuances of crossbow permits and licenses Canada is essential for a safe and legal hunting experience. The information above provides a general overview, but it is YOUR responsibility to consult and adhere to the most current federal, provincial, and even municipal regulations for your specific location and intended hunting activities.

At Crossbow Shop Canada, we strive to stay informed about Canadian crossbow regulations. While we cannot provide legal advice, our knowledgeable team can guide you on general requirements, recommend appropriate gear that meets provincial specifications, and direct you to official provincial resources where you can find the most up-to-date information.

Don’t risk fines or legal issues. Ensure you have all the necessary crossbow permits and licenses in Canada before heading into the field. Contact Crossbow Shop Canada for expert advice on equipment, and always double-check your provincial hunting regulations.