(A) Any person who discharges any firearm, target gun, or air gun, or shoots any slingshot, bow and arrow, or crossbow within city limits shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor.
(B) This section shall not apply to:
(1) A shooting range facility or paintball course for which a valid, current City of Ferris-issued certificate of occupancy has been issued for such use at the facility’s location;
(2) A starter pistol used as part of a City of Ferris or Ferris ISD-approved sporting event;
(3) A firearm, target gun. air gun. slingshot, bow and arrow, or crossbow used at a City of Ferris or Ferris ISD-approved event or performance;
(4) The discharge of blank cartridges used in a theatrical performance or as part of an official military honors ceremony or event; or
(5) A firearm, target gun, air gun. slingshot, bow and arrow, or crossbow used by a government official in the discharge of official duties.
(C) For the purpose of this section, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ARCHERY. The art, sport, or skill of shooting with a bow and arrow.
FIREARM. Any weapon, including pistols, rifles, and shotguns, or device as defined in Tex. Penal Code § 46.01(3), as currently written or as may be amended, the current definition being any device designed, made or adapted to expel a projectile through a barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance, or any device readily convertible to that use.
SHOOTING RANGE FACILITY. A public or private, indoor or outdoor facility, including individual shooting ranges, safety fans or shot-fall zones, structures, parking areas, and other associated improvements, designed for the purpose of providing a place for the discharge of various types of firearms or the practice of archery. This definition does not include incidental target practice areas on private property.
(Ord. O-16-816, passed 6-6-2016) Penalty, see § 130.99