§ 11-27. Discharge of firearms.

(a)

Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

(1)

Building shall mean any structure enclosed and isolated by exterior walls constructed or used for residence, business, industry or other public or private purposes, or accessory thereto, whether stationary or movable.

(2)

Business area shall mean an area in which is located a wide variety of sales and service buildings and facilities for the general public.

(3)

Discharge of firearms shall mean the firing of any pistol, rifle, shotgun, pellet gun or any other type of firearm.

(4)

Residential area shall mean an area containing buildings in which the principal use of the land in the area is for single-family, two-family, multifamily and apartment dwellings.

(b)

Prohibition. It shall be unlawful to discharge any firearm outside of the corporate limits of any municipality within the county, within 400 feet of any building in the vicinity of any residential or business area, consisting of five or more residences, businesses, farm buildings, or a combination thereof, or within 400 feet of any public or private school property, or public park; provided it shall not be a violation of this section when the firearm is being used to take birds or animals pursuant to G.S. ch. 113, subch. III or when used in defense of person or property, or when used pursuant to lawful directions of law enforcement officers; provided further, this section shall not apply to pistol or firing ranges in existence as of the date of the adoption of the ordinance from which this section derives which are located within 400 feet of the above described areas.

(c)

Penalties. Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished as provided by section 1-6 of this Code.

(Ord. of 8-9-78)

State law reference

Authority to regulate firearms, G.S. 153A-129.

Cross reference

Definitions and rules of construction generally, § 1-2; restrictions on possession, transportation and transfer of dangerous weapons and substances, § 5-8.