Yes, Tasers are legal in Canada but classified as prohibited weapons under the Criminal Code, requiring law enforcement or licensed security personnel to possess them. Civilian ownership is banned nationwide, with exceptions for restricted use by authorized entities. Recent 2026 amendments to the Firearms Act further tighten oversight, mandating provincial reporting of Taser-related incidents to the RCMP’s National Firearms Tracing Centre.
Key Regulations for Tasers in Canada
- Prohibited Weapon Status: Tasers fall under Criminal Code s. 84(1), prohibiting civilian possession without explicit authorization. Only peace officers, military personnel, or licensed security firms under provincial oversight may deploy them.
- Licensing and Training: Authorized users must complete federally accredited Taser training programs, such as those certified by the Canadian Police Knowledge Network (CPKN). Provincial agencies, like Ontario’s SIU, enforce compliance through mandatory incident reporting.
- Storage and Use Protocols: Tasers must be stored in locked, tamper-proof containers when not in use, with usage restricted to situations meeting the Use of Force Model guidelines. Violations trigger investigations by the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission (CRCC).