Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The City of Calgary has enacted updated bylaws to restrict the public display and use of weapons, including replicas, across public spaces and transit systems. The move comes in response to growing public safety concerns and a rise in incidents involving visible or discharged projectile weapons.
Under the new regulations, individuals are prohibited from carrying or displaying any weapon, real or imitation, on Calgary Transit vehicles and in public areas. The ban includes BB guns, pellet guns, airsoft rifles, slingshots, knives, crossbows, and other projectile-based or bladed objects.
“This is about protecting the public and sending a clear message,” said a City spokesperson. “There is no place for visible weapons, real or fake, on our buses, trains, or city streets.”
The bylaw, which was updated in late 2024, grants transit peace officers and law enforcement the authority to issue fines or remove violators immediately. It also reinforces that discharging any projectile weapon within city limits, even on private property, is prohibited.
Public safety advocate Himmat Shergil and local association leaders Minesh Patel, CMA president Swati Girap, Atul Chaihan, Reet Mushiana, and Avinash Khangura have welcomed the decision, telling National Times, “This is a necessary and overdue step. Visible weapons create fear, confusion, and risk. We must prioritize public safety and clarity in enforcement.” They emphasized the need for education alongside enforcement, especially for youth who may not realize the dangers of carrying or using imitation firearms in public. “A toy or replica gun can lead to a real police response,” they warned.
