Gun licence applications rise across the Toronto area

Applications for firearms licences have increased sharply across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area over the past decade, according to RCMP data. The largest jump was in Peel Region, where applications rose 110% between 2016 and 2025, while the broader GTHA saw a 49% increase. The CBC report says the cause of the increase is not clear, but industry observers point to growing interest in shooting sports and changing demographics among new applicants. Instructors and club operators say more women, younger adults and newcomers are taking safety courses and joining ranges. People applying for a Possession and Acquisition Licence must complete safety training, pass background checks and provide personal information and references. The data includes all applications received, not only approved licences, and routine renewals are excluded. RCMP officials said they cannot determine why licensing trends are changing from the application form alone.