This process allows a pistol permit holder to request certification that a firearm held by a police agency should not be destroyed and may instead be released and registered to their pistol permit after approval by the Licensing Officer.
Please follow the steps below to complete the Certification of Non-Destruction request.
Step 1 – Turn the Firearm Over to Local Police
Bring the firearm(s) to your nearest local police department and request the following documentation:
- A Property Receipt for the firearm(s)
- A computer-generated “No Record” printout for each firearm
If the police agency cannot provide a computer-generated “No Record” printout, you must obtain written verification from the agency stating that the firearm has no record in the system.
Important:
Do not surrender firearms to the New York State Police for safekeeping.
Step 2 – Submit Required Documents to the Pistol Permit Department
Bring or mail the following items to the Erie County Pistol Permit Department:
- The Property Receipt issued by the police department
- The “No Record” printout for each firearm
- A completed Certification of Non-Destruction Application
- A letter from the person you received the firearm from, if applicable
Step 3 – Application Review
Once your paperwork has been submitted:
- The Pistol Permit Department will review your application
- The request will be forwarded to the Licensing Officer for approval
If approved, you will receive an approval letter by mail.
Step 4 – Register the Firearm
After receiving the approval letter, you must register the firearm on your pistol permit through the Erie County Pistol Permit Department.