|
|
A special message from the Chief
on the new Massachusetts Firearms LawDear Montague Gun Owner:The new Firearms Law in Massachusetts, which took effect October 21, 1998, is very complex and has generated a significant number of questions and concerns for citizens. It is my hope that this document will address your concerns and help to guide you through the permit applications and renewals process. Let's start by reviewing the most asked questions:Q. I currently hold a License to Carry (LTC), When do I have to renew?
A. You will have to renew your LTC on the expiration date shown on the permit.Q. I currently hold a Firearms Identification Card (FID), do I have to renew it?
A. Yes, FID cards are no longer good for life. Q. When will my current FID card expire?
A. If your birthday falls between July 1 and December 31 your FID card will expire on your birthday in 1999. If your birthday falls between January 1 and June 30 your FID card expires on your birthday in the year 2000.Q. The law has created 4 different permits, which one should I apply for?
A. The weapon you plan to possess will determine which permit you must apply for. Let me briefly describe the different permits:FID Card, Restricted - Possess chemical defense sprays such as mace
- No fees for renewal
FID Card, non-restricted FID Card, non-restricted- Possess mace
- Possess non-high capacity rifles and shotguns
Class B, License to Carry (LTC)- Possess weapons listed above
- Possess high capacity rifles and shotguns and their feeding devices
- Possess non-high capacity handguns
Class A, License to Carry Firearms (LTC) - Possess weapons and feeding devices allowed by the above permits
- Possess high capacity handguns and feeding devices
- Permits you to carry concealed
Generally a LTC will be issued for ANY LAWFUL PURPOSE. All permits have the same application process, fees* and expiration cycle of 4 years. *(Except for a restricted FID, which has no renewal fee).Q. What would disqualify me from obtaining a LTC or FID* card?
A. You must be denied a for the following reasons: There is an outstanding arrest warrant for you; There is an active Restraining Order against you; You have been convicted (or adjudicated a delinquent) of a felony, a misdemeanor punishable by more than 2 years imprisonment, a violent crime, or a weapons or drug offense; You have been confined to a hospital or institution for mental illness, unless you have an affidavit from a physician stating you are not disabled by such illness in a manner that prevents you from possessing a firearm;You are an alien; You are under age.*NOTE: With respect to FID cards the disqualification for criminal convictions does not apply after 5 years from the date of conviction or release from incarceration or supervision. There is however still a lifetime disqualification for violent crimes or crimes involving the trafficking in drugs.Q. How old do I need to be for a LTC or FID card?
A. A LTC may not be issued to anyone under the age of 21. An FID card may be issued to someone age 15 with parental permission, otherwise 18 years old.Q. Do I need to take a class to have a LTC or FID card?
A. If you currently hold a LTC or FID card or wish to obtain only a Restricted FID card (mace only) you are exempt from the safety class requirement. If you are applying for a new LTC you must complete a Basic Handgun Safety Course. If you are applying for a FID card the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, Hunter Safety Course is required. You must submit the course certificate with the application.I understand that the Fish & Wildlife Hunter Safety Course will eventually include a handgun component. When this happens, I will accept the Hunter Safety Course for a LTC as well as FID cards.As stated earlier the new gun law is somewhat complicated. I hope I have answered most of your questions. I also trust that the attached description of the application process will help to minimize your inconvenience in complying with the law.If there are still issues that are unclear please feel free to call me during normal business hours at 863-8911. Thank you for your patience.Yours truly,Ray Zukowski,
Chief of PoliceFirearm Permit Procedures
For Emergencies, Dial 911
For All Else, Call (413) 863-8911
Montague Police Department
Raymond Zukowski, Chief of Police
1 Avenue A - Turners Falls, Massachusetts 01376
Back to Montague Police Department
Back to Departments
|
|
|
|
|
