Overview

• Persons with records of violence or domestic abuse are now automatically disqualified from obtaining a shotgun licence under the Home Office guidance in force from August 5, 2025.
• Police officers must interview partners or other household members of applicants to uncover any signs of domestic abuse or other factors affecting suitability.
• Shotgun applicants are required to supply two referees who have known them for at least two years, bringing shotgun rules into line with those for other firearms.
• Evidence of dishonesty, including withholding relevant medical or mental health history, will count against licence applications and may lead to refusal.
• A further public consultation on private firearm transactions is scheduled later this year to explore additional controls on shotgun ownership.