Agenda - 01-21-2016 - 5-a - Unified Development Ordinance Text Amendment – Recreational Land Uses - Closure of Public Hearing and Action (No Additional Comments Accepted)

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18 Chair McKee said emails about this issue do not distinguish between a commercial range, and a residential back yard target. He said the concern is about the safety, and he is not so sure that there should be the same requirements for this issue. Michael Harvey said the intent is to distinguish back yard recreational enjoyment versus a paid, commercial, open-to-the-public range. Chair McKee said he would question how it would be justified to have two people over to target shoot on large open property with no neighbors, and not allow that same right to someone that lives on two acres in another township. Michael Harvey said there would be properties that will be unable to conform to whatever standard is imposed. He said this is regrettable. He said in more densely populated areas with smaller lots, there would need to be acceptable limitations. Chair McKee said the acceptable limitations should be the higher. Commissioner Pelissier referred to the requirement that public shooting ranges can only operate between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. She asked if there could be a similar limit placed on private landowners. She said the noise of a group of friends target shooting on the weekend is the same as that of a commercial range. Michael Harvey said firearms are exempt within the Orange County Noise Ordinance. Commissioner Jacobs thanked Michael Harvey for trying to revise this ordinance. He suggested inviting the many residents who have complained repeatedly about the shooting ranges to a Planning Board meeting. Commissioner Jacobs noted the standards for commercial shooting ranges of 600 feet from any property line, and asked if there is a similar standard for a personal shooting target. Michael Harvey said 300 feet. Commissioner Jacobs asked if there is then a minimal lot size that would be required in order to accommodate this standard. Michael Harvey said he did not know, but would find this out. Commissioner Jacobs said it might also be useful including slope on these ranges. Michael Harvey said when trying to create uniform standards, it is difficult to allow flexibility regarding slope of property as there could end up being many more problems. He said on-site land differences cannot be taken into account, as it results in people being treated differently. Paul Guthrie said in his neighborhood there are both kinds of ranges, and the Sheriff's office does come out to make sure that weapons are being discharged safely. He also said other states allow the shooting of explosive targets. Michael Harvey said this text amendment prohibits exploding targets, and does not preempt the Sheriff's office from their duty of insuring safety.