Firearms Licensing: Understanding the Role of Your Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO)

For many prospective firearm or shotgun owners in the UK, the Firearms Enquiry Officer (FEO) is the first real contact they’ll have with the licensing process. Understanding who the FEO is, what they do, and how to work with them effectively is essential to making your application process as smooth and successful as possible.

This guide explains the role of the FEO in depth, dispels common myths, and offers practical advice to help applicants prepare for this critical part of acquiring or renewing a firearms or shotgun certificate (FAC/SGC).

Who Is the Firearms Enquiry Officer?

An FEO is a trained member of the police force, usually a civilian staff member or occasionally a warranted officer, assigned to handle firearms licensing duties. Their role is to assess applicants for firearms and shotgun certificates to ensure they are suitable and meet the legal requirements set out in the Firearms Act 1968 (and later amendments) and Home Office guidance.

The Key Responsibilities of an FEO

FEOs perform several essential tasks as part of the licensing process:

  • Conducting background checks: They examine your criminal history, mental health history, domestic situation, and overall suitability.
  • Carrying out interviews: Typically at your home, to assess your character, motives, and understanding of responsibilities.
  • Inspecting security arrangements: Ensuring your firearms cabinet and other storage comply with Home Office guidance.
  • Liaising with referees: They may contact your nominated referees to confirm your suitability.
  • Ongoing monitoring: In some cases, they may follow up with certificate holders if there are changes in circumstances or concerns.

What to Expect During an FEO Visit

The visit is not a test or interrogation, but a fact-finding mission to help the police assess your application. Here’s what usually happens:

  1. Verification of ID and documentation: You’ll need to show original ID, utility bills, and supporting paperwork (e.g., proof of land permission if applying for hunting purposes).
  2. Security inspection: Your cabinet should already be installed. It must meet British Standard BS7558 or be deemed secure enough by the force. It should be fixed to a solid wall or floor, in a discreet location.
  3. Interview: Questions may include:
    • Why do you want a firearm/shotgun?
    • How will you use it?
    • Are you a member of a club or have permission to shoot?
    • What is your understanding of legal responsibilities and safety?
  4. Referee discussion: If not already done, your referees may be contacted for further character assessment (especially for FAC applications).
  5. Discussion of past history: If you have any cautions, convictions, or mental health history, be honest. The police will already know.

Security Considerations

Your firearms must be stored securely at all times. During the visit, the FEO will check:

  • Cabinet construction and locks
  • Fixing points (should be bolted to brick/concrete walls or floors)
  • Separation of firearms and ammunition (in separate compartments or a separate cabinet)
  • Visibility and discretion (not in direct view of windows or known to the general public)

Tips to Help You Succeed

  • Be honest and open: Hiding information is far worse than explaining it clearly. Past issues may not be a barrier if explained reasonably.
  • Understand your responsibilities: Familiarise yourself with the Firearms Act 1968 and Home Office guidance.
  • Ensure your referees are suitable: For FAC, they must know you personally for at least two years and not be a family member or employee.
  • Prepare your home and security: Your cabinet must be installed before the visit, ideally out of sight in a secure location.
  • Join a shooting club: This shows commitment, responsibility, and provides a lawful use for your firearms.

Common Misunderstandings

  • FEOs want to fail applicants: Not true. Their role is to fairly assess suitability. They aren’t trying to catch you out.
  • Security must be perfect: It must meet reasonable standards—not be Fort Knox. They’ll offer guidance if improvements are needed.
  • Mental health history is an automatic refusal: Not necessarily. Being proactive and having documentation or a letter from your GP can help.

What Happens After the Visit?

Once the visit is complete:

  • The FEO submits a report to the firearms licensing department.
  • A senior officer will make the final decision on whether to grant, refuse, or request additional information.
  • If successful, your certificate should arrive in the post within several weeks.

If your application is refused, you’ll receive written reasons and have the right to appeal. Some forces may offer informal reviews or reconsiderations before formal appeals.

Summary

The Firearms Enquiry Officer is not your enemy—they’re a key part of the licensing system and help ensure public safety. By being prepared, informed, and honest, your interaction with the FEO can be a smooth and positive step towards joining the UK’s responsible firearms community.

It’s well worth reading your police force’s firearms licensing policy and the Home Office Firearms Security Handbook in advance. As always, if you’re unsure, speak to your club, licensing officer, or seek legal advice.