(a) Definition. For the purposes of this section the following terms shall have the meanings indicated unless their context requires a different meaning.
AMMUNITION. Any ammunition cartridge, shell or other device containing explosive or incendiary material designed and intended for use in any firearm.
FIREARM. A pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun, or any other firearm, except for an inoperable antique firearm.
MINOR. Any person under the age of 18.
SUPERVISED MINOR. A minor who is being trained in the use of a firearm by a person exercising parental authority and refers only to minors over the age of twelve years who appear to be willing and able to follow safety instructions.
(b) Loaded firearm/ammunition. Except as provided in this section, a person shall not leave a loaded firearm, or an unloaded firearm in close proximity to ammunition for it, in any location where it is reasonably foreseeable that a minor may gain access to the firearm.
(c) Exemptions. This section shall not apply where:
(1) A supervised minor has access to a firearm and is supervised by:
(a) The parent of the minor, or
(b) An adult person who customarily acts in the role of parent of the minor, or
(c) An adult person designated in writing by the minor’s parent to supervise the minor’s use of a firearm.
(2) A firearm is in a locked gun cabinet or similar locked location, or is secured with a trigger lock or other similar device which prevents the firearm from discharging ammunition;
(3) A minor’s access to a firearm was obtained as a result of an unlawful entry to the premises; or
(4) A firearm is in the possession or control of a law enforcement officer while the officer is engaged in official duties.
(d) Firearms dealer; lock; warning text. The following warning shall be conspicuously posted in every place of business where firearms are sold, “It is unlawful to leave a loaded firearm with ammunition for it nearby if it is foreseeable that a minor may gain access to the firearm. We sell trigger locks and other safety devices.” The letters in the sign shall be in block form not less than one inch in height.
(e) Penalty. Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be subject to a fine of up to five hundred dollars ($500.00) or imprisonment for ninety (90) days, or both.
(Ord. 3216, passed 9-23-1992)