Contents
- The first step is a hunting licence, followed by an application to the Control of Generally Dangerous Means unit at the local police department.
- The purchase permit is valid for three months, and the weapon purchased must be registered within seven days.
- A rifled firearm requires at least two years' hunting experience and an examination in selective hunting.
- The permit is valid for five years. Renewal must be sought at least one month before expiry, failing which the weapon is seized and a fine of BGN 500 to 2,000 is imposed.
The acquisition, possession and storage of hunting firearms in the Republic of Bulgaria are strictly regulated by the Weapons, Ammunition, Explosives and Pyrotechnic Articles Act. This article examines in detail the legal grounds, the administrative procedures and the documents required for acquiring and lawfully possessing a hunting firearm, as well as for renewing the relevant permits.
Acquiring a Hunting Firearm (Smoothbore and Rifled)
The first step towards acquiring a hunting firearm is obtaining the right to hunt. This is done by successfully completing a course organised by the relevant hunting organisation, which concludes with an examination. Once the examination has been passed, a hunting licence is issued, which is the main document entitling the holder to take part in hunting.
Having obtained the right to hunt, the person may apply to the Control of Generally Dangerous Means unit at the local police department of the Ministry of Interior for a permit to acquire a hunting firearm.
Documents Required for the Permit
- A completed application in the prescribed form
- A validated hunting licence
- Proof of at least basic education (a copy and the original for verification)
- An identity card (a copy and the original for verification)
- A medical certificate issued by a healthcare facility, confirming that the person does not suffer from a mental disorder
- A criminal record certificate expressly stating that the person has not been convicted of an intentional publicly prosecuted offence (in most cases obtained by the Ministry of Interior ex officio)
- A certificate from the National Investigation Service confirming that no criminal proceedings have been opened (also obtained ex officio)
- Proof of payment of the state fee
Once the documents have been filed, an officer of the Ministry of Interior inspects the storage conditions for the future weapon. A metal safe securely fixed to the floor or wall and fitted with a lock is required.
If the inspection is satisfactory, the person receives a permit to purchase a weapon, valid for three months. After purchase, the weapon must be registered with the Control of Generally Dangerous Means unit within seven days.
Rifled Hunting Firearms (Rifles)
Acquiring a rifled hunting firearm requires additional conditions. The person must
- have at least two years' experience as a hunter (from the date of issue of their first hunting licence);
- have passed an examination in selective hunting before a commission appointed by order of the Executive Director of the Executive Forest Agency;
- hold a certificate of successful completion of a course in selective hunting.
The permit procedure is identical to that for smoothbore firearms, but the selective hunting certificate is added to the documents.
Storage of Hunting Firearms
Under Art. 98 of the Act, individuals who own firearms must store them in a way that excludes access by unauthorised persons and ensures their security. The weapon should be kept in a metal safe fixed to the floor or wall and fitted with a locking mechanism. Ammunition is stored separately. The Ministry of Interior may carry out inspections to verify compliance.
Renewal of the Permit
The permit to store and carry a hunting firearm is valid for five years. An application for renewal must be filed no later than one month before it expires. If this deadline is missed, the Ministry of Interior administratively seizes the weapon and holds it for up to one year. During that period, the owner may renew the permit or transfer the weapon to another person who holds a valid permit. If the owner takes no action after that period, the weapon is subject to confiscation.
Documents Required for Renewal
- An application in the prescribed form
- A validated hunting licence
- A certificate of fitness of the weapon (technical inspection)
- A medical certificate from a healthcare facility
- Proof of payment of the state fee
- A copy of the identity card
- A declaration under Art. 76(4)(2) of the Act
- A document folder
- For rifled firearms, a copy of the selective hunting certificate
Penalties
Under Art. 87(1) of the Act, persons who possess a firearm with an expired permit are liable to an administrative fine of BGN 500 to 2,000 and to the seizure of the weapon until the breach is remedied.
The procedure for acquiring and possessing a hunting firearm requires careful preparation of documents, knowledge of the statutory time limits and full compliance towards the Ministry of Interior. Any omission or delay may lead to the seizure of the weapon, fines or even the refusal of a future permit. Consulting a lawyer experienced in administrative and firearms law is advisable, especially in the event of a refusal or a dispute with the authorities.
If you encounter problems with the issue, renewal or revocation of a permit, our administrative law team can assist you.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to acquire a hunting firearm?
A hunting licence, an application to the Control of Generally Dangerous Means unit, proof of at least basic education, an identity card, a medical certificate confirming that you do not have a mental disorder, a clean criminal record and proof of payment of the fee. The Ministry of Interior also inspects the storage conditions, which require a metal safe fixed to the floor or wall.
What else is required for a rifle (rifled firearm)?
At least two years' experience as a hunter from the issue of your first hunting licence, a passed examination in selective hunting and a certificate of completion of a selective hunting course.
When must I apply to renew my permit?
No later than one month before the five-year permit expires. If you miss the deadline, the Ministry of Interior seizes the weapon and holds it for up to one year, during which you may renew the permit or transfer the weapon to a person with a valid permit.
What is the fine for a weapon with an expired permit?
BGN 500 to 2,000 under Art. 87(1) of the Act, together with the seizure of the weapon until the breach is remedied.
