Posted: 3/25/2010 12:19:13 PM EDT
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A buddy of mine recently told me that multiple people (State Police) have informed him that it is illegal to discharge a firearm within 300 yards of someone elses residence. I have been scouring the ILCS and the web trying to find information about this and can only find prohibitions on hunting within 300 yards of someones residence without their permission but nothing on just shooting. He says that a State Police officer interrupted a target practice session at his dad's place because a neighbor called to complain and was told that is was flat out illegal to discharge a firearm within 300 yards of residences (excluding his own).
After not finding anything on the ISP website, the ILCS, or Google I am guessing that the officer(s) were likely misinformed, or just lying to him. Does anyone know of any law or code that refers to the discharge of firearms outside of city limits when you aren't hunting (apart from those concerning roads and shooting in the direction of things such as people, vehicles and residences)? Thanks! |
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yup pretty sure it is in the IDNR hunting regulations.
IDNR Hunting regs |
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I would call the ISRA and have them give you an attorney's name near your area familiar with gun law issues. The attorney will give you a much better opinion on what is legal or illegal in your particular area. He would also be ready to represent you, if your family continues to shoot and you are then cited or arrested by the ISP/Sheriffs.
Don't let some jerk liberal neighbor stop you from enjoying your property. However, have some decency to not shoot very early in the morning or late into the evening. Also make sure your backstops are adequate for the caliber you are shooting. Have fun! |
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Thanks for the replies. Of course safety is the number one concern in such situations but I know enough people that live in very rural areas that provide safe shooting opportunities that I don't want to have to rule them all out because of a false understanding of the laws. It is clear though that even if we are crystal on the laws there is enough confusion in the LE field that having a professional's opinion and backing would be worthwhile.
Also, I would always go out of my way to keep the neighbors happy but if they have objections that stem from ideals and not inconvenience then there is only so much that I can do. |