Firearms Public Record Exemption

Firearms Public Record Exemption

Firearms License Request for Public Records Exemption

The NYSAFE Act protects the privacy of pistol permit holders by allowing them to instruct their County Clerk that they do not wish their information to be released publicly by completing the NYS Firearms License Request for Public Records Exemption form.

Where do I get the Opt-Out (FOIL Exemption) form?

The forms are available through the Niagara County Clerk’s office or at any one of the three (3) DMV locations in Niagara County.  It can also be found under the “Forms” section of the Niagara County Pistol Permit webpage.

Niagara County Pistol Permit Office                      All Niagara County DMV Locations
Niagara County Courthouse                                       111 Main Street, Lockport
Lower level (Basement)                                         500 Wheatfield Street, North Tonawanda
175 Hawley Street                                                           1001-11th Street, Niagara Falls
Lockport, NY 14094

You may also visit the below websites:   

https://troopers.ny.gov/nys-firearms-license-request-public-records-exemption-0

https://gunsafety.ny.gov/nys-firearms-license-request-public-records-exemption

How do I complete the form?

Complete all personal information as well as your current pistol permit number, date issued, and county.  Check the box that best describes the reason your information should not be publicly disclosed.  Sign and date the form.  Unsigned forms will be returned.

Once I’ve completed the form, how do I submit it?

By mail:         Niagara County Clerk
                        PO Box 461
                        Lockport, NY 14095-0461

In person:     Niagara County Pistol Permit Office
                        Niagara County Courthouse
                        Lower level (Basement)
                        175 Hawley Street
                        Lockport, NY 14094

By fax:            716-439-7035

Once the form is completed, how long does it take to become effective?

The Licensing Officer typically grants all exemptions within thirty (30) days of receipt.  

At that time, those who have submitted the form will become exempt from the FOIL provisions unless the licensing officer has refused to grant the exemption.

If I do not file the form by May 15, 2013, will I be able to file in the future? Yes, you may file the form anytime. However, after May 15, 2013, if you have not yet filed an exemption form, your information may be subject to release under FOIL.