Managing firearms after owner's death

After a death, someone may have left you firearms to manage.

You may be:

• nominated in their will
• an executor of their estate

You have a legal responsibility to manage any weapons in a safe way.

First, you must contact the firearms licensing team and:

• give notice about the owner's death
• list the guns you have inherited

The firearms licensing team will give you advice and options based on your circumstances.

In some cases, they may provide you with a temporary permit. This gives you the legal right to possess (not use) the firearms for up to three months, usually. It allows you time to decide what to do with the firearms. Whether that's selling or disposing of them or finding a legal way to own and use them.

Contact the firearms licensing team.

Selling or disposing of firearms

Read about selling or disposing of firearms.

Keeping firearms

If you have a temporary permit, you can possess (not use) the firearms for up to three months, usually.

To own and use guns, you must apply for a firearm or shotgun certificate.