LICENSE TO CARRY FIREARMS (LTC)

How do I apply for a License to Carry Firearms? Applicants shall call the firearms licensing division at 617-972-6545 in order to apply for a License to Carry. No application is necessary however it is suggested that you download the application worksheet to use as a rough draft. An online application must be completed at the police station. An applicant must submit all of the following:

• A detailed letter to Chief Edward Deveau giving all the particulars for wanting to carry a firearm.
• Proof of citizenship. i.e., birth or naturalization certificate.
• Proof of residency. i.e., copy of a utility bill
• Written verification that you have recently (within 6-9 months) completed a firearms safety course approved by the Colonel of State Police. This course must be taught by a state approved firearms instructor. You must present a copy of the instructor's certification. This is required for NEW license applications. For RENEWAL applications you must show written verification that you have recently (within 6-9 months) been instructed in the proper care and safe use of handguns by a State, NRA, or Mass Criminal Justice Training Council certified instructor. You must present a copy of the instructor's certification.
• Two letters of reference.

For a Target Shooting Only License, you must submit written verification of your membership in a bona fide gun club. This class of license is restricted to target use and in traveling to and from your home and the range/club.For a Hunting & Target Only License, you also must have a valid and proper hunting license as well as the above. The same restrictions apply as with target only except you may carry while engaged in hunting.For Employment Purposes License, you must submit a letter (in a format provided by the WPD) from your employer stating all the reasons that the possession of a firearm is necessary. This class of license is restricted to that employment and in traveling to and from that place of employment. This license shall be returned to the Watertown Police Department immediately upon separation of said employment .Interview(s) may be required.

Firearms FAQ’s

Are there any costs involved? Yes, a one hundred dollar (non-refundable) check or money order made payable to the Town of Watertown is required. There is no license renewal fee for persons over the age of 70. Who may be issued a License to Carry Firearms? According To Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 140, Section 131, the Chief of Police "may issue to a person residing or having a place of business {not just being employed} within their respective jurisdiction, a license to carry firearms in the commonwealth, if it appears that the applicant is a suitable person to be so licensed, and the applicant has good reason to fear injury to his or her person or property, or for any other proper purpose, including the carrying of firearms for use in target practice only."What is the disqualifying criterion for issuance of a License to Carry Firearms?Under M.G.L., Chapter 140, Section 131 an individual is disqualified from carrying a firearm if the person:

• has been convicted (or adjudicated delinquent or as a youthful offender) of a felony, a misdemeanor punishable by more than two years imprisonment, or a violent crime
• has been convicted of an offense involving the unlawful use, possession or sale of a narcotic drug
• is currently the subject of an Abuse Prevention Order issued pursuant to M.G.L., Chapter 209A
• is under the age of (21) twenty-one
• is an alien
• has been under treatment for or confined to a hospital or institution for mental illness
• is or has been under treatment for or confinement for drug addiction or habitual drunkenness
• is subject to an outstanding arrest warrant
• is not found to be a suitable person to be so licensed and does not have good reason to fear injury to his person or property, or any other proper purpose, including the carrying of firearms for use in target practice only, by the licensing authority

• who has been discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions
• who having been a citizen of the United States, has renounced his citizenship
• who is a fugitive from justice

How long is a License to Carry Firearms valid for? This license is valid for six (6) years.

Can my license be suspended or revoked? Yes, a license to carry firearms is revocable for cause at the will of the licensing authority.

What happens if I am denied a License to Carry Firearms? Applicants who are denied a License to Carry Firearms will be notified in writing and will include the reasons why. The applicant may if he/she so desires, appeal the decision of the Chief of Police by filing a petition for review at the Waltham District Court, 38 Linden Street, Waltham, MA. 02154, within ninety (90) days from receipt of the denial letter.

Do I have to inform anyone of my address change? Yes, you must complete the "Change of Address Notification Form" and follow its instructions. You must notify the following agencies within 30 days:

• the issuing department
• the department of the jurisdiction you are moving into
• Firearms Record Bureau 200 Arlington Street, Suite 2200, Chelsea, MA. 02150