For many South African firearm owners, Dedicated Status is an important step when their involvement in sport shooting or hunting goes beyond occasional participation. Under the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, a person can qualify as a dedicated sportsperson or dedicated hunter by becoming a member of an accredited association, completing the required training and assessments, and regularly participating in the relevant activities.
What does Dedicated Status allow?
Dedicated Status is primarily associated with firearm licences issued under Section 16 of the Firearms Control Act.
It provides greater flexibility for people who are genuinely active in hunting or sport shooting. This can include the ability to licence more than four firearms for the relevant purpose and, subject to the applicable requirements, possess firearms such as semi-automatic rifles or shotguns.
Dedicated status also provides for possession of more than 200 rounds of ammunition per licensed firearm.
However, Dedicated Status does not automatically mean that every firearm application will be approved. Each Section 16 firearm application must still be properly motivated and is subject to approval by the Central Firearms Registry.
Dedicated Hunter vs Dedicated Sportsperson
Your Dedicated Status should reflect the activity you genuinely participate in.
Dedicated Hunter status is intended for people who regularly participate in hunting, while Dedicated Sportsperson status is intended for those who regularly participate in recognised sport shooting activities.
Some firearm owners may qualify for both, provided they meet the applicable requirements.
Ongoing responsibilities
Dedicated Status is not simply a way to own more firearms. It comes with ongoing responsibilities.
A dedicated hunter or sportsperson must remain a member in good standing with their accredited association and continue participating in and reporting the relevant activities required to maintain their status.
This ongoing participation is important because Dedicated Status is intended for genuine hunters and sport shooters who actively use their firearms for the purpose for which they are licensed.
In simple terms: Dedicated Status is recognition that you are an active hunter or sport shooter, rather than someone who only participates occasionally.