Agenda - 09-10-20; Item 1 - Additional Discussion on Potential Regulation of the Discharge of Firearms in Areas of the County with High Residential Unit Density

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ATTACHMENT C DURHAM COUNTY GUN DISCHARGE ORDINANCE • Sec. 17-51. - Intent. The board of commissioners has determined that the health and safety of those citizens of the county who live in predominantly residential areas of the county require that the discharge of firearms and airguns in or near those predominantly residential areas be prohibited, and that there be restrictions on the discharge of firearms in the remaining areas of the county. It is, therefore, the intent of the commissioners by this division to protect the health and safety of its citizens and their property, and to promote the quiet enjoyment of their property. (Ord. of 9-13-93, § 1) • Sec. 17-52. - Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Airgun means any weapon that discharges a projectile or cluster of shot by the use of mechanical spring, compressed air or compressed gas, and shall include BB and pellet rifles, pistols and revolvers. Firearm means any weapon that discharges a projectile or cluster of shot by the use of exploding gunpowder and shall include rifles, shotguns, pistols and revolvers. Predominantly residential district means a residential area of not less than five homes created and constructed in accordance with approval of the county commissioners pursuant to the subdivision ordinance of the county (appendix B of this Code), a plat of which appears of record in the office of the register of deeds of the county. It shall include the subdivisions named in the ordinance from which this division is derived, which is on file in the county offices. (Ord. of 9-13-93, § 2) Cross reference— Definitions generally, § 1-2. • Sec. 17-53. - Discharge of firearms within predominantly residential areas of the county prohibited; exceptions. It shall be unlawful for any person to discharge a firearm within 600 feet of a residence located within a predominantly residential area of the county, except when the firearm is discharged: (1) In the lawful defense of person or property. (2) By, or at the lawful direction of, a law enforcement officer, or authorized military personnel. (3) Within a firing range for which a permit has been issued in accordance with section 17-53.1, below. (Ord. of 9-13-93, § 3; Ord. of 6-27-94) 14