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Airgun law · Canada
Are Airguns Legal in Alberta?
Yes. Airguns are legal here for adults.
No meaningful state or national barrier for adult buyers, though local rules can still apply.
Tier 4 — Permissive
Minimal provincial-level barrier beyond the federal floor. Local rules may still apply.
AB
The picture at a glance
Each measure below scores how restrictive Alberta is on that part of owning or transferring an airgun, from permissive (green) to firearm-level (red).
ClassificationFederal framework governs
Age rule18+ for PAL
PossessionPAL required (above threshold)
Transfer / saleStandard PAL process (above threshold)
TransportFederal STDR (above threshold)
Provincial layerFederal floor only
The rules in detail
Classification
Federal framework governs
Federal framework governs. Below 152.4 m/s (500 fps) AND 5.7 J — not a firearm under the Firearms Act. Above either threshold (and both for full firearm status) — treated as a firearm.
Age rule
18+ for PAL
18+ for retail purchase of an airgun above the federal threshold (PAL required). Below threshold, no airgun-specific provincial age verified; industry standard is 18+.
Possession
PAL required (above threshold)
Lawful for adults below the federal threshold. Above threshold, a valid PAL is required.
Transfer / sale
Standard PAL process (above threshold)
Below threshold: no provincial transfer process. Above threshold: same as conventional non-restricted firearm transfer (PAL verification, registration where applicable).
Transport
Federal STDR (above threshold)
No province-specific airgun transport rules below the threshold. Above threshold, federal Storage, Display and Transportation Regulations apply.
Provincial layer
Federal floor only
Firearms regulation is constitutionally federal in Canada; provinces administer hunting and may set discharge bylaws via municipalities.
Hunting with an airgun
Provincial framework allows airguns within general firearms framework; specific airgun-on-big-game allowance not located in source set
Deer
Unresolved / not addressed
Unresolved
Turkey
Unresolved / not addressed
Unresolved
Small game
Allowed with conditions
Allowed (general small-game framework; verify caliber and species)
Predators
Unresolved / not addressed
Unresolved
Other big game
Unresolved / not addressed
Unresolved
Local rules that still apply
City of Calgary / Edmonton
Municipal bylaws restrict the discharge of airguns within urban limits. Use at approved ranges or on rural property with permission.
This is a plain-language summary compiled from primary statutes and official guidance, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary, so verify the current rules with the relevant authority before buying, selling, or hunting.