Most Frequently Asked Questions
Acquiring a Federal Firearms License can be a complicated matter. Getting your FFL within the confines of local ordinances, especially with a home based FFL, can be challenging. However, the federal FFL licensing requirements are generally basic and straightforward. The requirements of 27 CFR 478.47 must be met by the applicant. If the applicant meets the FFL requirements, ATF will issue the appropriate FFL.
However, over the past few years, I’ve noted a few questions that seem to come up consistently. So in this article, I’ll address some of those FAQ’s pertinent to getting an FFL.
Getting an FFL FAQ’s:
What type of safe do I need?
Although ATF recommends a number safety precautions and protocols that FFLs should use in the conduct of business, there is no requirement in federal regulations for FFLs to keep firearms in a safe at any time.
What type of building or space will ATF require?
The premises from which an applicant intends to conduct a firearms business should be proper for the proposed type of business. Which means that depending on your business model, this could be any space from a small office to a large warehouse. So, applicants should use the “common person” standard. In other words, would the common person perceive my premises to be appropriate for my business model?
There is no hard and fast rule for this question. Common sense is your friend.
Can I keep my firearms in storage away from the licensed premises?
Yes. A licensee may keep firearms inventory at a storage location, and must have that address on file with the Federal Firearms Licensing Center (FFLC). The FFL must make all places of storage available for examination by ATF Officers in accordance with federal law and regulations.
Do I need to get local permits prior to filing the Federal Firearms License application?
ATF F 7/7CR:
“The business/activity to be conducted under the Federal Firearms License is not prohibited by State or local law at the premises shown
in item 6. This includes compliance with zoning ordinances. (Please contact your local zoning department PRIOR TO submitting application)“
There’s a good deal to parse out in the statement above, but let’s keep it simple. The FFL applicant should contact the government authority having jurisdiction over occupational licensing and zoning, to determine if the proposed business is prohibited. The language in the instructions assumes the applicant has done that.
There is no regulation or policy I’m aware of that requires submission of permits or other related documents to ATF along with the application, or at any time prior to licensing. However, I recommend all applicants obtain local permits if possible, and submit them with the application. This suggestion is not always a viable option. This may not apply in every case.
The idea is to give ATF what they need to approve the application without any unnecessary obstacles.
How long does it take to get an FFL?
By regulation, ATF has 6o days to approve a “properly executed” application. In most cases, ATF will contact an applicant within 30 to 45 days after receipt of the application. Issuance of the license is usually completed about 2 weeks after the interview.
There are a number of other questions that applicants are mindful of at any time, but in general, these are the top 5.
If you need any advice along these lines, or have any other questions, call me at 786-587-8827 for the answers you need.