HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018 07 23 JEFFCO CSF Ordinance - REDLINE
1
Chapter 8.xx
Commercial Shooting Facilities
8.xx.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this article is to provide uniform requirements for the establishment and
operation of all commercial shooting facilities. in unincorporated parts of the county. These
requirements include provisions that: (1) establish
(1) Establish a permitting procedure and rules for the siting, design and operation of commercial
shooting facilities which protect participants, spectators, neighboring properties and the
public; (2) include
(2) Include appropriate measures designed to make the discharge of firearms safe; (3) protect
(3) Protect the environment; (4) ensure
(4) Ensure compatibility with neighboring land uses; and, (5) promote
(1)(5) Promote the continued availability of shooting facilities for firearm education, training,
and practice in the safe use of firearms, and firearm sports, without prohibiting or expressly
regulating the discharge of firearms.
8.xx.020 Definitions.
The following definitions shall apply in the interpretation and enforcement of the ordinance
codified in this article:
(1) “Armed forces” means the armed forces of the United States or of the National Guard or
organized reserves.
(2) “Backstop” means a barrier that stops or redirects bullets fired on a shooting range, usually
directly behind the target line.
(3) “Baffles” means barriers constructed to contain bullets or to reduce, redirect or suppress
sound waves. Baffles are placed either overhead, behind, alongside, or at ground level to
stop or redirect errant or off-the-target shots.
(4) “Ballistic trauma” means wounds from the discharge of firearms.
(5) “Berm” means an embankment used for restricting bullets to a given area, or as a protective
or dividing wall between shooting areas.
(6) “BMP” means best management practice or practices.
(7) “Bullet” means a single projectile fired from a firearm. *******how will this be used?
Commented [PH1]: New definition to that helps
implement the Environmental Stewardship Plan for
Management
of Lead Shot/Bullets called for by the guidance from USEPA
Region 2 identified by Joe D’Amico.
Commented [PH3]: This is the definition from the NRA
Source Book (2012) that will be used to make clear what the
ordinance means when it uses the term bullet. Examples:
Definition of baffles, berm, cartridge, impact area, etc.
Commented [PH2]: This is the definition from the NRA
Source Book (2012).
2
(8) “Buffer zone” has the same meaning as in JCC 18.10.10B, as it exists now or is hereafter
amended, and includes but is not limited to buffer zones required by Chapter 18.22 JCC
(the critical areas ordinance) or Chapter 18.25 JCC (the shoreline master program
ordinance), federal or state law.
(9) “Cartridge” means a self-contained unitized round of ammunition that is made up of a case,
a primer, powder, and a bullet. The case usually is made of brass but may be steel, metal
alloy or plastic.
(10) “Cold Range” means a shooting range on which all firearms are to be unloaded at all times,
unless the shooters are actually standing on the firing line.
(10)(11) “Commercial shooting facility” means an indoororindoor facility or outdoor facility
designed and specifically delineated for safe shooting practice with firearms, whether open
to the public, open only to private membership, open to organizational training for law
enforcement officers or members of the armed forces, or any combination of the above.
There may be one or more shooting ranges located at a commercial shooting facility. The
term commercial shooting facility does not include:
(a) Shooting facilities owned and operated by any instrumentality of the United States, the
State of Washington, or any political subdivision of the State of Washington;
(b) Any portion of a private residence or private residential lot that isprivately-owned
property used for lawful shooting practice solely by its owner or guests without
payment of itsany compensation to the owner for lawful shooting practiceof the
privately-owned property.
(11)(12) “Cowboy action shooting” means a type of match utilizing one or a combination of
firearms of “Old West themed” courses of fire for time and accuracy.
(12)(13) “Critical areas” mean critical areas describedas defined in Chapter 18.22 JCC., as it
now exists or may be hereafter amended.
(14) “Daylight hours” means one-half hour before sunrise until one-half hour after sunset.
(13)(15) “Department” means the Jefferson Countycounty department of community
development.
(14)(16) “Director” means the Directordirector of the Jefferson Countycounty department of
community development.
Commented [PH4]: This definition was added for clarity
from the NRA Range Source Book.
Commented [pch5]: Added to address suggestion from
Joe D’Amico at July 11, 2018 Review Committee meeting.
Commented [PH6]: Defined below.
Commented [PH7]: Defined below.
Commented [PH8]: Defined below.
Commented [PH9]: This sentence was moved up from the
definition of shooting range for clarity.
Commented [PH10]: This was added from Gig Harbor
Code Section 5.12.070D to make clear that Jefferson County
is unable to regulate those facilities. Note: This only applies
to facilities both owned and operated by another government
within Jefferson County.
Commented [PH11]: At the suggestion of Michelle
Farfan, this replaces the definition of Wetland in the prior
draft. Critical areas include but are not limited to wetlands.
Commented [pch12]: Previously undefined. Definition
added for clarity.
Commented [PH13]: This definition was added for
purposes of clarity.
3
(15)(17) “Environmental Stewardship Plan” means a plan for mitigating the environmental
impacts of commercial shooting facilities as required by JCC 8.xx.050.
(16)(18) “Expansion” means any proposed change in excess of those that increases the
existing activities and uses permitted for the commercial shooing facility.any change to ,
including expansions of a commercial shooting facility existing lawfully operating as of the
effective date of the ordinance codified in this article or any range developed and operating
by an operating permit that results in . Examples of expansions include but are not limited to
additional firing positions or a, lengthened daily periodperiods of operations. Expansion shall
also include any change increasing the length of the, increases in permitted firearm caliber or
range or increased size of shot fall or direct fire zone or the area of the shotfall zone to
accommodate the use of firearms not identified in the then existing operating permit
applicationzones. Modifications made solely through routine maintenance of a commercial
shooting facility, such as the installation of sewer, water or other utilities, pavement of a
parking lot, the installation of safety baffles, construction of side or backstop berms, or the
construction or remodel of a clubhouse, shall not be considered an expansion.
(17)(19) “Exploding target” means a target that explodes when hit by a projectile.
(20) “Explode” means burst or shatter violently and noisily from rapid combustion,
decomposition, excessive internal pressure, or other process, typically scattering fragments
widely.
(18)(21) “Firearm” means a weapon or device from which a projectile or projectiles may be
fired by an explosive such as gunpowder. The definition of “firearm” includes the terms
pistol, rifle, short-barreled rifle, shotgun, short-barreled shotgun, machine gun, and antique
firearm as those terms are defined in RCW 9.41.010 as it exists now or hereafter may be
amended. The term “firearm” shall not include: 1(a) devices, including but not limited to
“nail guns,” which are used as tools in the construction or building industries and which
would otherwise fall within this definition.; or 2), (b) a “destructive devicesdevice” as
defined in USC Title 18, Chapter 44 ___._18 U.S.C. §921(a)(2) as it exists now or hereafter
may be amended.
(19)(22) “Firing line” means a line parallel to the targets from which firearms are discharged.
(20)(23) “Firing point” means a location from which one individual fires at an associated
target down range.
(21)(24) “Five-stand shooting” means a shotgun shooting sport where there are five stations
or stands on the firing line and multiple strategically placed target throwers that throw targets
in front of the firing line.
(25) “Hazardous substance” means any liquid, solid, gas, or sludge, including any material,
substance, product, commodity, or waste, regardless of quantity, that exhibits any of the
physical, chemical, or biological properties described in WAC 173-303-090 or WAC 173-
303-100 as they now exist or may be amended in the future.
Commented [PH14]: This is new and implements
environmental standards for indoor commercial shooting
facilities.
Commented [MM15]: These provisions go under the
standards later in the document
Commented [PH16]: This term was added because of the
discussion at the 6/13/18 review committee meeting.
Commented [MM17]: Come back to this after the
decisions are made about operational permits or conditional
use permits
Commented [pch18]: This was proposed for deleting, but
I suggest we kept this definition so definition of exploding
target is clear.
Commented [MM19]: Bring definitions together for the
no shooting ordinance.
Commented [PH20]: There are limits on who can use a
short-barreled rifle, a short-barreled shotgun, or a machine
gun, so I added that to the limitations section near the end of
this document. See RCW 9.41.190.
Commented [PH21]: All these terms are defined in RCW
9.41.010.
Commented [PH22]: Paintball. Consider WAC 516-21-
220, which states:
Weapons and destructive devices.
Possession, use, storage, or manufacture of firearms,
ammunition, explosives, or other weapons or destructive
devices capable of causing bodily injury or damage to
property, on university property or at official university
functions, is a violation of the code. Weapons and
destructive devices include, but are not limited to, the
unauthorized use or possession of:
(1) Firearms or projectile devices of any kind, including BB,
pellet, paintball, and airsoft guns, bow and arrow, and sling
shots;
(2) Martial arts weapons of any kind, including nunchucks,
swords, or throwing stars;
(3) Fireworks of any kind;
(4) Dangerous chemicals;
(5) Any knife with a blade longer than three inches
(excluding kitchen utensils); and
(6) Weapons classified as dangerous in RCW 9.41.250.
This does not include the lawful possession of any personal
protection spray device authorized under RCW 9.91.160. ...
Commented [MM23]: Janet will provide citation
Commented [pch24]: This is the definition from the U.S.
Code:
(4)The term “destructive device” means—
(A)any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas— ...
Commented [pch25]: Added provide definitions for the
financial assurance requirements raised by Stuart Whitford
during the 7/11/18 Review Committee meeting.
4
(26) “Hazardous waste” means those solid wastes designated by 40 CFR Part 261, and regulated
as hazardous and/or mixed waste by the United States EPA.
(27) “Hot Range” means a shooting range on which all firearms are allowed to be loaded at all
times.
(22)(28) “Impact area” means the area in a backstop or bullet trap directly behind the target
where bullets are expected to impact or the area downrange where bullets will impact if not
captured by a backstop or bullet trap.
(23)(29) “Indoor facility”” means a commercial shooting facility within a fully enclosed
structure.
(24)(30) “Law enforcement officer” means “law enforcement” officer as defined in RCW
9.41.010 (12) and “qualified law enforcement officer” as defined in 18 U.S.C. Section
928B(c), as they now existsexist or are hereafter amended.
(25)(31) “Life safety violationincident” means an incident that causes, ballistic trauma to an
individual or domestic animal,..
(26)(32) “Member of the armed forces” means a member of the armed forces, when on duty.
(27)(33) “Noise Baffle/Berm” means a baffle or berm designed to inhibit the transmission
of sound waves. For the avoidance of doubt, a noise baffle/berm may include trees.
(28)(34) “NRA Range Source Book” means the most current version of The NRA Range
Source Book published by the National Rifle Association.
(29)(35) “Operator” means the person operating the commercial shooting facility.
(30)(36) “Operating Permit” means the operating permit required by this article.
(31)(37) “Or” means both or and and/or.
(32)(38) “Outdoor facility” means a commercial shooting facility whichthat is not an indoor
facility.
(33)(39) “Owner” means the holder of title to the real property on which a commercial
shooting facility is located. .
(34)(40) “Person” means person as that term is defined in RCW 1.16.080 as it now exists or
hereafter is amended.
(35)(41) “Physical containment” means the use of physical barriers that are sufficient to
contain the projectile from the highest power firearm used on a shooting range when the
shooting range is used in accordance with its operating permit. Physical containment may
include, but is not limited to baffles, sidewalls, backstops and berms of adequate design,
Commented [pch26]: Added provide definitions for the
financial assurance requirements raised by Stuart Whitford
during the 7/11/18 Review Committee meeting.
Commented [pch27]: Added to address suggestion from
Joe D’Amico at July 11, 2018 Review Committee meeting.
Commented [PH28]: This was added for clarity and was
adapted from the NRA Range Source Book.
Commented [MM29]: Put the details here into the
standards section.
Commented [PH30]: This was modified from the US
DOE Range design criteria for sound control at page 32 of
the pdf. See
https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2013/05/f1/Range_D
esign_Criteria.pdf.
Commented [MM31]: Depending on how this is used in
the ordinance we might need to clarify whether Tribal law
enforcement are included in this definition.
Commented [pch32]: Depending on how this is used in
the ordinance we might need to clarify whether Tribal law
enforcement are included in this definition.
Commented [MM33]: Revisit this after we figure out how
it is used.
Commented [PH34]: Replaced “substantial bodily harm”
with this defined term.
Commented [PH35]: The language in this definition
comes from RCW 9.41.60(2).
Commented [pch37]: I don’t see where this definition is
used.
Commented [PH36]: This definition was suggested at the
6/13/18 review committee meeting. I think it is redundant
with the definition of:
“Baffles” means barriers constructed to contain bullets or to
reduce, redirect or suppress sound waves. Baffles are placed ...
Commented [PH38]: This definition was added for
clarity, considering reference is made numerous times to the ...
Commented [PH39]: This is the definition agreed upon at
the 6/13/18 review committee meeting.
Commented [PH40]: This definition was added for
clarity, considering its use in the definition of physical ...
Commented [PH41]: New definition suggested by Tom
Richardson.
Commented [PH42]: This is from Clallam County. See
CCC 33.03.010(76).
Commented [PH43]: This definition was added to define
“owner” as used in the ordinance.
Commented [PH44]: Modified as suggested in the
6/13/18 review committee meeting.
5
quantity, and location to ensure that no errant projectiles can escape the commercial shooting
facility.
(36)(42) “Practical shooting” means a sport that challenges an individual’s ability to shoot
rapidly and accurately with a firearm. To do this, shooters take on obstacle-laden shooting
courses called stages, some requiring many shots to complete, and others just a few. While
scoring systems vary between practical shooting organizations, each measures the speed
with which the stage is completed, with penalties for inaccurate shooting.
(37)(43) “Projectile” means an object fired from a firearm with an explosive propelling
charge.
(38)(44) “Range manual” means a manual on operations and maintenance at commercial
shooting facilities.
(39)(45) “Range master” or “range officer” means a person or persons trained and appointed
by the operators of a commercial shooting facility to oversee the safe discharge of firearms
in accordance with the safety specifications of this chapterarticle and any additional safety
specifications that may be adopted by the operators of the commercial shooting facility.
Range masters or range officers shall complete the necessary training and obtain certification to
be a range master or range officer from the National Rifle Association, the Washington State
Criminal Justice Commission, or an armed forces equivalent.
(40)(46) “Routine maintenance” means simple, small-scale activities (e.g., repairing berms
or structures or routineproperty maintenance for which permits are not required.etc.)
(41)(47) “Rules and regulations” means standards used in the operation of a commercial
shooting facility. Rules and regulations are set up to govern the commercial shooting facility
operations and shall be included in the safety plan.
(42)(48) “Safety fan” means all areas in or aroundoutside a shooting range where projectiles,
including errant projectiles, may impact or ricochet. The length of the safety fan extends to
the maximum range of the most powerful cartridge and firearm used on the firingshooting
range unless adequate physical containment is provided. When physical containment is
adequate, the safety fan is limited to the area within the containment.
(43)(49) “Safety plan” means the written procedures or policies of a commercial shooting
facility prepared by the operator that specifically definesdefine the safety requirements for the
commercial shooting facility as required by JCC 8.xx.040.
(44)(50) “Shoot house” means a structure, sometimes roofless, which that simulates multi-
room buildings.
(45)(51) “Shooting range” consists of a firing line or firing points, and an impact area. A
commercial shooting facility may include multiple shooting ranges.
Commented [PH45]: Modified as suggested in the
6/13/18 review committee meeting.
Commented [PH46]: This definition was added for
clarity.
Commented [PH47]: Janet Welch suggested a definition
for range manual may be needed, pointing to Gig Harbor’s
ordinance, p. 3. However, I couldn’t find such a definition in
the Gig Harbor ordinance. Perhaps Janet meant the
definition from Cowlitz County which states:
“‘Range Manual’ means The Range Manual – A Guide to
Planning and Construction, The National Rifle Association,
1988.” However, the NRA reference seems to be out of date
and replaced by The Range Source Book published by the
NRA in 2012. Perhaps, this is a question for Mr. Vasquez.
Commented [MM48]: This goes into standards section
Commented [PH49]: Modified as suggested in the
6/13/18 review committee meeting.
Commented [PH50]: At the 6/13/18 review committee
meeting it was suggested that a check be made for a
definition already existing in the JCC Unified Development
Code. None exists—see JCC 18.10 R.
Commented [PH51]: Modified slightly for clarity.
Commented [PH52]: Modified as suggested in the
6/13/18 review committee meeting.
6
(46)(52) “Skeet shooting” means a shotgun shooting sport where shooter is on the firing line
and shoots at targets launched from two skeet houses in somewhat sideways paths that
intersect in front of the shooter.
(47)(53) “Sporting clays” means a form of clay pigeon shooting whichthat consists of
multiple shooting stations laid out over natural terrain such that target presentations simulate
the unpredictability of live quarry shooting.
(48)(54) “Target” means a mark to shoot at.
(49)(55) “Target line” means the line where targets are placed.
(50)(56) “Tracer or incendiary ammunition” means any ammunition causing or designed to
cause fires and includes a projectile or shell that that traces its own course in the air with a
trail of smoke, chemical incandescence, or fire, so as to facilitate adjustment of the aim of a
firearm.
(51)(57) “Trap shooting” means a shotgun shooting sport where a shooter on the firing line
shoots at targets launched from a single launching point and generally away from the shooter.
8.xx.030 Ranges – Operating permit requiredPermit Required.
(1) Commercial shooting facilities shall be authorized and operated in accordance with an
operating permit issued by the department.
[This is how Clark County handles the requirements:
9.12.055 Safety standards and specifications.
All shooting ranges licensed pursuant to this chapter shall, at a minimum, comply with the
following safety standards and specifications:
(1) All structures, installations, operations and activities shall be located at such a distance
from property lines as will protect adjoining properties from hazard, when the ranges are used
in accordance with range safety rules and standards.
(2) Range site design features and safety procedures shall be installed and maintained to
discourage end rounds from escaping all shooting positions, when such positions are used in
accordance with range safety rules and standards.
(3) A plan shall be submitted with the license application which shows the location of all
buildings, parking areas and access points; safety features of the firing range; elev ations of
range showing target area, backdrops or butts; and approximate location of buildings on
adjoining property.
Commented [PH53]: Modified as suggested in the
6/13/18 review committee meeting.
Commented [PH54]: This is the dictionary definition.
Added for clarity.
Commented [PH55]: This language comes from WAC
332-52.145.
Commented [PH56]: It is important that the review
committee address soon the question of whether it is fair to
require recertification of the commercial shooting facility,
considering the cost of construction of such facility to the
owner. See Subsection 4(c), below.
Commented [MF57]: If this code does not have a
minimum land size area for commercial shooting facilities,
then we should consider adding a setback to adjacent
property lines; unless the use is only allowed in forest zones.
7
(4) A safety plan shall be submitted which cites rules for each range. This should include
sign-in procedures, if applicable, restrictions on activities and the use of ranges, and every
safety plan shall prohibit loaded weapons, except at shooting positions and except for holstered
handguns.
(5) All commercial shooting ranges shall have at least one safety officer on duty at all times
while shooting activities occur; provided, that when three (3) or fewer shooters are present,
each may act as his own safety officer.
(6) When urban residentially-zoned property or residential streets are located adjacent to
property containing an outdoor shooting range, warning signs shall be installed and maintained
along shooting range property lines. These signs shall be conspicuously posted at intervals of
at least one for every one hundred (100) feet, and the range shall be fenced or partially fenced,
when practical.
(7) Shooting ranges shall be used for the shooting activities they were designed to
accommodate unless redesigned to safely accommodate new shooting activities.
(8) Ranges will include an adequate backstop or adequate range for sh otdrop.
(9) All shooting ranges shall provide a readily accessible telephone available to range
participants and spectators for the purpose of contacting emergency medical services.
(10) A person responsible for the shooting range, which, in the case of commercial shooting
ranges means the safety officer or his designee, shall, within twenty-four (24) hours, report in
writing to the Clark County sheriff’s office and Clark County planning department all accidents
resulting from the discharge of firearms in use on the range.
(11) On commercial shooting ranges, shooting activities shall only occur between 8:00 a.m.
and dusk unless otherwise restricted by the operating permit. On commercial shooting ranges,
outdoor shooting activities shall only occur between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., unless otherwise
restricted by the shooting license itself.
(12) In reviewing license applications for safety and upon reinspection for existing shooting
ranges, the sheriff and the Clark County planning department shall be guided by the NRA
Range Source Book.” CCC 9.12.055, slightly modified.]
(2)(1) No proposed or existing commercial shooting facility may operate without an operating
permit. Failure to obtain an operating permit shall result in closure of the shooting range until
8
such time a permit is obtained. Shooting ranges that operate without an operating permit are
subject to code compliance enforcement, including but not limited to injunctive relief. The
operating permit shall govern the facilities and scope of operations of each commercial
shooting facility, and shall be issued, denied, or conditioned based upon the standards set forth
in this article. No proposed or existing commercial shooting facility may operate without an
operating permit issued pursuant to this chapter, except as provided in subsection (2) of this section.
(3)(2) The operating permit is not intended to alter the legal nonconforming use status and rights
of existing ranges, which are governed by Title 18 and the common law, nor shall this operating
permit authorize expansion of shooting range uses which otherwise require approval pursuant to a
conditional use permit or other land use permits per Title 18. Failure to obtain an operating permit
will result in closure of the shooting range until such time a permit is obtained. Shooting ranges
that operate without a permit are subject to code compliance enforcement, including but not limited
to injunctive relief. [This is how Clark County handles the interface with the building code:
“Applications for commercial shooting ranges shall be processed as conditional use permits under
Chapter 2.51 and Section 40.520.030 of this code. Private ranges shall be subject to the review and
approval provisions of Section 40.520.020 of this code. Community development and the county
sheriff shall review the application and may impose conditions of approval, including proof of
insurance for the facility. If the approval authority finds that adequate provision is made to ensure
the safety of residents surrounding the area of the shooting range and the public at large, and that
the location and operation of the shooting range is in compliance with zoning regulations, including
Sections 40.520.020(C) or 40.520.030(E), it shall approve the application subject to appropriate
conditions.” CCC 9.12.050(3).]Title 18 JCC and the common law, nor shall this operating
permit authorize expansion of shooting range uses that otherwise require approval pursuant to
a conditional use permit or other land use permits per Title 18 JCC.
(4) Each owner or operator of a commercial shooting facility shall apply for and obtain a new
operating permit from the department for any expansion of the commercial shooting facility.
An expansion shall not be implemented prior to obtaining a new operating permit under the
standards then in effect for new operating permits.
(5) Each owner or operator of a commercial shooting facility shall apply for and obtain an
operating permit.
(6)(3) New Commercial Shooting Facilities. The owner or operator of a proposed new
commercial shooting facility shall apply for the commercial shooting facilityan operating permit
at the time of the condition use application for any necessary building or land use permits. .
(7)(4) Established Commercial Shooting Facilities. The owner or operator of an established
commercial shooting facility in active use on the effective date of the ordinance codified in
this article shall apply for the initial commercial shooting facilityan operating permit not later
than ninety (90) days after the effective date of the ordinance codified in this article.
(a) Length of Permit. A commercial shooting facility operating permit issued by the
department is valid for five years from the date of issuance or renewal. The owner or
operator of each commercial shooting facility shall apply for a permit renewal at least
thirty days prior to the date of current permit expiration. [This is how Clark County
handles this: (4) Ranges approved pursuant to this section shall be subject to periodic
Commented [PH58]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
Commented [PH59]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
Commented [pch60]: This subsection was proposed by
Janet Welch but has been slightly modified to make it
clearer. Not included in this subsection is the following
suggested language:
(e)Routine maintenance of existing berms, backstops,
structures and facilities shall not be construed as a
change requiring an amendment to an operating permit.
(f)Changes to shotgun range configuration or Safety Plan
procedure shall not be construed as a change requiring an
amendment to an operating permit if the discharged shot
is wholly contained on the shooting facility property.
(g)Changes to rifle or pistol range configuration or
Safety Plan procedure shall not be construed as a
change requiring an amendment to an operating permit
if the direction of fire and safety structures are not
altered and the safety procedures are not reduced.
This language was not added as it is covered by the
definition of expansion.
Commented [MF61R60]: Under (f) above, at a minimum
I would recommend at least a revised range configuration
plan be submitted to DCD for review, especially if critical
areas are present on the site. The reconfiguration could
potentially impact a critical area or its associated buffer.
Commented [PH62]: In the 6/6/18 Review Committee
meeting, there was a discussion about vesting that could
apply to this provision.
9
reinspection by the director every five (5) years; provided, that more frequent
inspections may be done at the discretion of the director. In reviewing ranges for safety,
the current edition of the NRA Range Source Book shall guide the director. (5) In
addition to the grounds for revocation set forth in Section 40.520.030(F), revocation
may be based upon a change of circumstances which renders the continued operati on
of the range clearly unsafe.” CCC 9.12.050(4) and (5), slightly modified.]
(5) NRA Range Source Book. In reviewing a newInspections and Annual Report Required.
(a) Pre-Permit Inspection. Prior to issuing any operating permit, the department shall inspect
the commercial shooting facility to determine that the commercial shooting facility
complies with any applicable conditional use provisions required by Title 18 JCC and the
standards set forth in this article.
(b) Annual report. The holder of the operating permit shall submit a report to the department
on an annual basis. The annual report is due each year on the last day of the same month
the operating permit was issued. The annual report shall include:
i. A written statement by the owner of the commercial shooting facility declaring that the
commercial shooting facility is compliant with the initial operating permit approval;
and,
ii. A current statement of liability insurance and any monitoring data required by an
operating permit or any applicable conditional use permit issued pursuant to Title 18
JCC.
(c) Annual Inspection. After issuance of an operating permit, commercial shooting facilities
facilities shall be subject to an annual inspection following submission of the annual report
required by this section.
(d) Noncompliance Inspection. An inspection shall be triggered upon the director’s receiving
evidence of noncompliance with the annual report requirement, noncompliance with the
operating permit or receipt of a credible report that there exists a reasonable likelihood that
humans, domestic animals, or property have been or will be jeopardized by the operations
of the commercial shooting facility. For noncompliance inspections:
i. The department shall contact the commercial shooting facility within one business day
and shall give the commercial shooting facility a written notice of the complaint; and,
10
ii. The owner or operator shall make the commercial shooting facility available for
inspection not later than two business days after receiving a request for an inspection
from the department.
(e) Following an annual inspection or a noncompliance inspection:
i. The department shall inform the owner or operator of any deficiencies or corrective
actions to be taken;
ii. (ii) The owner or operator shall take corrective action within a reasonable time, as
determined by the department; and,
iii. The owner or operator shall allow the department to conduct follow up inspections to
verify that corrective action has been taken.
(f) Life Safety Incident. If the director determines there was a life safety incident:
i. The director may suspend or modify the operating permit, close the commercial
shooting facility or a shooting range, or modify shooting range operations;
ii. The director shall provide the owner or operator a written notice that shall set forth
each claimed life safety incident with a specific reference to applicable violation of this
article or operating permit;
iii. The owner or operator shall have thirty (30) days to respond in writing to the written
notice provided by the director and to take any necessary corrective measures.
(g) Effect of a Suspension of an Operating Permit. An operating permit that has been
suspended requires the commercial shooting facility to cease any firing activities until the
permit has been reinstated by the director.
8.xx.030 Application for a Commercial Shooting Facility.
(b) The application for a conditional use permit for a commercial shooting facility
operating permit, or renewal of an existing permit, the NRA Range Source Book shall
guide the department. Reference to the NRA Range Source Book may not be used as
the basis for any claim of civil liability against the NRA or against Jefferson County or
its officers, directors, employees, agents, or representatives based upon deviation from,
citation to, or reliance upon the NRA Range Source Book.
11
(1) Application Contents. The application for an initial commercial shooting facility operating permit
or for the expansion of an existing commercial shooting facility operating permit shall include
the following documentsshall contain all information required by Title 18 JCC, any other
information deemed appropriate by the director such as approval criteria for conditional use
permits that apply to the siting of the commercial shooting facility contained in JCC
18.40.100 Development permit application and 18.40.520, and the following components
with the information required in the subsections that follow:
(a) Types of Firearms, Ammunition and Shooting Proposed.
(a) Site Plan;
(b) Facility Design Plan;
(c) Safety Plan;
(d) Operations Plan;
(e) Environmental Plan; and,
(f) Professional Evaluation.
(g) Certification.. A
(2) Site Plan. The Site Plan shall contain at least the following elements:
(a) All the applicable requirements in Chapter 18.30 JCC and Chapter 18.40 JCC, as they
now exist or may hereafter be modified;
(b) A list of all property owners prepared by a title company within the distance of the safety
fan but no less than the requirements in JCC 18.40.210(3), as it now exists or may be
hereafter modified;
(c) Locations and dimensions of all walkways;
(a)(d) Locations of all hazardous material storage and use, per a hazardous substance or
hazardous waste management plan, reviewed and approved by the department, which shall
include:if needed;
Commented [PH63]: This subsection was moved up at the
suggestion of Janet Welch.
Commented [pch64]: Do we want a clearer standard?
12
(e) Firearm handling rules, general Locations and dimensions of firing lines or firing points,
target lines and impact areas to include any related buildings;
(f) Locations, dimensions and slope of all backstops and side berms, whether natural or
manmade and the volume, material, and source of all imported materials;
(g) Locations and dimensions of any baffles and containment structures and any baffles or
side containment structures;
(h) The safety fan for each shooting range rules, specificproposed; and,
(i) Approximate location of buildings on adjoining property.
(3) Facility Design Plan. The Facility Design Plan shall contain at least the following elements:
(a) Dimensional drawings of physical layout for each of the items listed in this subsection,
drawn at a scale not smaller than one-inch equals 200 feet, and not larger than one-inch
equals 50 feet;
(b) Horizontal drawings of the baffles and a description of the materials to be used for them;
(c) For rifle and pistol shooting ranges:
i. The location and dimension of the safety fans and component parts for each shooting
range;
ii. Longitudinal cross-sections, with elevations, of that portion of each shooting range
from 10 feet behind each firing line to 10 feet beyond the downrange terminus of
each direct fire zone, 10 feet beyond the back toe of each backstop if manmade, or if
natural, 20 feet beyond the front edge of the backstop, as applicable; and,
iii. Latitudinal cross-sections, from 10 feet outside any side berms or the edge of each
safety fan, of typical areas between each firing line and backstop or downrange
terminus of the direct fire zone.
(d) For five-stand shooting, skeet shooting, sport clay shooting and trap shooting ranges, the
location and dimension of the shotfall zones and component parts;
(e) For practical shooting ranges without overhead baffles, a safety fan diagram based on the
most powerful cartridge proposed to be shot on the shooting range;
13
(f) Elevations of all shooting ranges showing target area, backstops and berms;
(g) Any other information deemed appropriate by the director such as approval criteria for
conditional use permits contained in JCC 18.40.530.
(4) Safety Plan. rules and administrativeThe Safety Plan shall contain at least the following
elements:
(a) Sign-in procedures, rules and regulations established by the owner/operator to include any
firearms or caliber restrictions on specific shooting areas.for the use of shooting ranges;
(b) EmergencyAn emergency plan, to include provision for timely notification to the
Jefferson Countycounty sheriff’s office and to the department of any type of ballistic
trauma with initial notification within ninety-six-hours. The accidental or unintended
release of a bullet from a shooting arearange shall be documented by the commercial
shooting facility and available for inspection by the department as requested.;
(c) A requirement of at least one qualified range master or range officer present when the
commercial shooting facility is open to the public;
(d) A requirement that when closed to the public, a member who has passed the minimum
training requirements of the shooting range shall be present;
(e) A requirement that range masters and range officers shall complete the necessary training
and obtain certification to be a range master or range officer from the National Rifle
Association, the Washington State Criminal Justice Commission, or an armed forces
equivalent.
(c)(f) The training plan for range control officers and any other person involved in
safety and environmental control at the commercial shooting range.facility;
(g) Identification of shooting ranges whereIf any cowboy action shooting, practical shooting,
and similar sports shooting matches are proposed, along with the identity of the association
governing the sport and its safety guidelines. If suchauthorized at any shooting range, the
requirements that:
i. Where the governing association has no safety guidelines, the safety plan shall
include the requirements that each shooter shall have a range control officer within
Commented [pch65]: Do we want a clearer standard?
Commented [PH66]: This section was modified for
clarity.
Commented [PH67]: This section was modified for
clarity.
14
arms-length to ensure control of the muzzle of the firearm and shall state whether the
range master or the range officer shall also perform as the timer.;
(b) Facility Design Plan. The application shall contain a facility design plan with its layout
and design, including:
(i) The property lines of the parcel(s) on which the firing range(s) are to be
developed.
ii. A list of all property owners prepared by a title company within 2,640 feet of the
perimeter of the property on which For practice in which shooting takes place where
overhead baffling is not present, an on-duty range officer shall be present at the
practice site alongside the shooter and the commercial shooting facility shall limit the
hours of practice to daylight hours;
iii. For any competition event or practice in which shooting takes place where overhead
baffling is not present, an on-duty range officer shall be present at the practice site
alongside the shooter;
ii.iv. For practice in which shooting takes place where overhead baffling is not present, the
commercial shooting facility is proposed for development.shall limit the hours of
practice to daylight hours;
(ii) A list of all land uses of all properties abutting the proposed commercial
shooting facility.
(iii) Locations of all critical areas and their associated buffers on the parcel(s)
proposed for the commercial shooting facility.
(iv) Location of all streams, watercourses, wetlands and associated buffers on the
parcel(s) proposed for the commercial shooting facility.
(v) Locations of all utilities, including but not limited to electrical, potable water,
wastewater disposal, and drainage ways, both natural and artificial.
(vi) Locations and dimensions of all roads and driveways on the parcel(s) proposed
for the commercial shooting facility.
Commented [PH68]: This subsection section melds the
current subsection with provisions from Cowlitz County
Code Section 10.22.070 and Gig Harbor Code Section
5.12.060, as suggested by Janet Welch in her draft presented
to the review committee on June 13, 2018.
15
(vii) Locations and dimensions of all lighting facilities on the parcel(s) proposed
for the commercial shooting facility.
(viii) Locations and dimensions of all existing and proposed structures on the
parcel(s) proposed for the commercial shooting facility, labeled for their
intended use.
(ix) Locations and dimensions of firing lines or firing points, target lines and impact
areas to include any related buildings on the parcel(s) proposed for the
commercial shooting facility.
(x) Locations and dimensions of all walkways on the parcel(s) proposed for the
commercial shooting facility.
(xi) Locations and dimensions of all signage, screening, landscaping, and fencing
on the parcel(s) proposed for the commercial shooting facility.
(xii) Location and dimensions for landscaping and parking facilities, including the
number of parking spaces, for the parcel(s) proposed for the commercial
shooting facility.
(xiii) Locations, dimensions and slope of all backstops and side berms, whether
natural or manmade and the volume, material, and source of all imported
materials to be used on the parcel(s) proposed for the commercial shooting
facility.
(xiv) Locations and dimensions of any baffles and containment structures and any
baffles or side containment structures on the parcel(s) proposed for the
commercial shooting facility.
(xv) Horizontal drawings of the baffles shall be included and building materials
to be used for them on the parcel(s) proposed for the commercial shooting
facility shall be identified.
v. The safety fan for Only two competition events per calendar month are allowed; and,
vi. Practice shall be restricted to one shooting range at any given time.
Commented [PH69]: “Firing positions” was deleted,
based on the discussion about definitions at the 6/13/18
review committee meeting.
16
(h) Procedures to determine whether and, if so when, any of the shooting ranges are cold
ranges or hot ranges;
(xvi) Procedures to ensure that each shooting range proposed on the parcel(s)
proposed for the commercial shooting facility.
(d)(i) For rifle and pistol ranges is only, longitudinal cross-sections of that portion of
each firing range from 10 feet behind each firing line to 10 feet beyond the downrange
terminus of each direct fire zone, 10 feet beyond the back toe of each backstop if
manmade, or if natural, 20 feet beyond the front edge of the backstop, as applicable; and
latitudinal cross-sections, from 10 feet outside any side berms or the edge of each safety
fan, of typical areas between each firing line and backstop or downrange terminus of the
direct fire zone. used for the shooting activities identified in the operating permit
application;
(xvii) For practical shooting ranges without overhead baffles, a safety fan diagram
based on the most powerful cartridge proposed to be shot on the range.
(xviii) Dimensional drawings of physical layout for each of the items listed in this
subsection, drawn at a scale not smaller than one-inch equals 200 feet, and
not larger than one-inch equals 50 feet.
(xix) Any other information deemed appropriate by the director such as approval
criteria for conditional use permits contained in JCC 18.40.530.
(j) All Information Required by Title 18.A means for participants and spectators to readily
contact emergency services such as fire or emergency medical services;
(k) A requirement that firing lines, targets and target lines shall be located so that the
direction of fire is not toward any structure housing people or domestic animals located
within five hundred yards of the point of discharge; and,
(l) A requirement that where shooting is taking place within five hundred yards of a
shoreline, wetland or wetland buffer the owner, operator and shooter shall orient the
firing away from the shoreline, wetland or wetland buffer or demonstrate how bullets are
contained so that they do not enter the shoreline, wetland or wetland buffer.
(2)(5) Operations Plan. The applicationOperations Plan shall contain all information required by
Title 18.at least the following elements:
Commented [pch70]: Added to address suggestion from
Joe D’Amico at July 11, 2018 Review Committee meeting.
17
(a) The days of the week and the hours of operations the proposed commercial shooting
facility is proposed to be open.;
(b) Whether the commercial shooting facility will be open to the public, open only to private
membership, open to organizational training for law enforcement officers or, members of
the armed forces, ofor any combination of these.;
(c) Professional Evaluation. An evaluation of the commercial The types and largest
caliber of firearms, ammunition and shooting facility design and safety plan
performed priorintensity to the application shall contain the following;
(c) The evaluation must be performed by an NRA allowed on each shooting range technical
team advisor (RTTA) or a professional engineer with expertise in the design of shooting
ranges that reports any safety issues or proposed uses which are inconsistent with the NRA
Range Source Book for facility designs and institutional controls or qualified consultant that
meets the credentials previously stated. The evaluation must be in written form and signed by
the evaluator.;
(i) The department may, at county expense, arrange for an additional or
independent inspection and evaluation of the proposed commercial shooting
facility, including the commercial shooting facility’s uses and institutional
controls described in an application for an operating permit. In cases where
there is dispute between the evaluation provided by the commercial shooting
facility and the evaluation performed at the option of the county, the dispute
shall be decided by the hearing examiner pursuant to Title 18.
(d) ForType of shooting proposed on each shooting range;
(e) If cowboy action shooting, practical shooting, or similar sports shooting matches are
proposed:
i. Identification of shooting ranges where cowboy action shooting, practical shooting,
and similar sports shooting matches are proposed; and,
ii. Identification of the association governing the sport and its safety guidelines.
(f) If exploding targets are to be used on:
Commented [PH71]: Janet Welch proposed the following
similar language:
Designs and safety procedures shall be evaluated by an
NRA Range Technical Team Advisor (RITA) or by a
professional engineer with experience in shooting
facilities or other qualified professional consultant with
experience and expertise in the evaluation and design of
shooting ranges. Qualified professional consultants must
demonstrate their education, experience and expertise by
identifying their certifications from nationally recognized
shooting organizations that provide such certifications, the
number and location of shooting facilities they have
designed or evaluated and contact information for those
facilities. Their home facility will not count towards this
qualification.
Commented [PH72]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
18
i. A requirement that use of exploding targets be limited to one day per calendar month
during a commercial shooting facility, plansdesignated four-hour period during
daylight hours.
ii. A requirement that exploding targets shall meet parameters defined by the
manufacturer, and shall not exceed one-half pound of mixture.
(d) A plan for mitigation of noise impacts on neighbors.
(e) Required which may include an approved bunkering system that surrounds the
target on three sides and forces theCertification. Every application for an operating
permit shall be accompanied by a notarized certification by the operator that the
commercial shooting facility complies with this article, meets commonly accepted
shooting facility safety and design practices, and will be operated in a manner that
protects the safety of all persons present at the commercial shooting facility and the
general public.
(8) Commercial shooting facilities shall meet the following standards:
(a) Containment of Projectiles at Each Shooting Range. Each shooting range within a
commercial shooting facility shall be designed, constructed, operated and maintained
to contain discharged projectiles within the commercial shooting facility property.
Containment requires the use of the appropriate combination of overhead baffles,
impact berms and sidewalls or side berms, as follows:
(i) Overhead baffles shall be constructed of material of sufficient design to stop
and contain any projectile fired from the most powerful cartridge authorized
for use on that specific range, shall be placed at intervals that are sufficient to
eliminate the possibility of a projectile to be fired over the top of any preceding
or successive baffle, and shall extend downrange far enough to prohibit a
projectile being fired over the top of the impact berm.
(ii) Impact berms shall be constructed of material of sufficient height and thickness
to stop and contain any projectile fired from the most powerful cartridge
authorized for use on that specific range at any elevation that is not contained
by the last overhead baffle. The surface of the impact berm should be free of
large rocks and debris to reduce ricochet.
(b) Sidewalls or side berms shall be constructed of material of sufficient height and
thickness that will stop and contain any projectile fired from the most powerful
19
cartridge authorized for use on that specific range at any elevation that is not contained
by an overhead baffle or impact berm.
(c) Institutional and Facility Controls. A commercial shooting facility shall use the NRA
Range Source Book, or other engineered specifications that meet or exceed the
standards established by the NRA Range Source Book, as a minimum to develop and
implement institutional and commercial shooting facility controls for the safe
operation, improvement and construction of shooting ranges. Commercial shooting
facilities should engineer and construct commercial shooting facilities to reduce sound
impacts on neighboring communities to the maximum extent feasible.
iii. sound back towards the shooter and upward;
(g) A requirement that if cannons are to be used for audio effect purposes, a noise variation
per Chapter 8.70 JCC;
(c) A requirement that aSafety Plan. Each shooting range shall have a safety plan as
described in Subsection 6(b). Each shooting range shall be used only for the shooting
activities identified in the safety plan.
(d) Range Master or Range Officer. A commercial shooting facility shall have at least one
qualified range master or range officer present when open to the public. When the
commercial shooting facility is closed to the public, a commercial shooting facility
member who has passed the minimum training requirements of the range shall be
present.
(e) Fire Codes. Commercial shooting facilities shall meet all applicable local fire codes.
(d)(h) Training for Units of the Armed Forces and Law Enforcement. A shooting range
may not be used for training of units of the armed forces or law enforcement, unless the
commercial shooting facility’s application identifies all proposed activities, types, and
calibers of firearms to be used, and the commercial shooting facility is currently certified
by the regional command as meeting the armed forces or law enforcement range safety
manuals and standards. This but that does not restrict individual members of the armed
forces, or law enforcement to use a commercial shooting facility for improving their
individual skills with privately owned firearms.
(f) Exploding Targets. A commercial shooting facility may allow the use of exploding
targets (e.g., Tannerite, etc.) as provided in this subsection. Use of exploding targets is
limited to one day per calendar month during a designated four-hour period between
the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The commercial shooting facility must designate
Commented [PH73]: The Kitsap ordinance says “as
described herein.” It was changed to add specificity.
20
the day and time of use in its application. If used, exploding targets must meet
parameters defined and identified in the safety plan, including that exploding targets
shall only be used within the parameters defined by the manufacturer, and shall not
exceed one-half pound of mixture. A commercial shooting facility allowing use of
exploding targets shall demonstrate how it mitigates the noise impacts on surrounding
neighbors. Mitigation may be an approved bunkering system that surrounds the target
on three sides and forces the sound back towards the shooter and upward.
(g) Cannons. If a commercial shooting facility utilizes cannon(s) for audio effect purposes,
a noise variance per Chapter 8.70 JCC shall be required.
(h) Ready Contact to Emergency Services. All commercial shooting facilities shall
provide a means for participants and spectators to readily contact emergency services
such as fire or emergency medical services.
(i) Shooting Near Shorelines, Wetlands or Wetland Buffers. Commercial shooting
facilities within five hundred yards of a shoreline, wetland or wetland buffer must
orient the firing away from these areas or demonstrate how bullets are contained so that
they do not enter these areas.
(j) Direction of Fire. Firing lines, targets and target lines must be located so that the
direction of fire is not toward any structure housing people or domestic animals located
within five hundred yards of the point of discharge.
(k) Cowboy Action Shooting. Commercial shooting facilities conducting cowboy action
shooting, practical shooting, and similar sports shooting matches must meet the
following requirements:
(i) A commercial shooting facility is limited to two competition events per
calendar month;
(ii) All such competition events or practices shall take place on a range constructed
in compliance with subsection 6(b);
(iii) For any competition event or practice in which shooting takes place where
overhead baffling is not present, an on-duty range control officer must be
present at the practice site alongside the shooter;
Commented [PH74]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
21
(iv) For practice in which shooting takes place where overhead baffling is not
present, the commercial shooting facility must limit the hours of practice to
daylight hours between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and,
(v) Practice must be restricted to one range at any given time.
(9) Expansion of Commercial Shooting Facility. Each owner or operator of a commercial shooting
facility must apply to the department for an amendment to the operating permit when additional
firing lines, firing lanes, or shooting ranges are proposed or the design of any commercial
shooting facility range is altered beyond the scope of the original permit approval. Such
proposed changes shall not be implemented prior to department approval. Exceptions:
(a) Routine maintenance of existing berms, backstops, structures and facilities shall not be
construed as a change requiring an amendment to an operating permit.
(b) Changes to shotgun range configuration or safety plan procedure shall not be construed
as a change requiring an amendment to an operating permit if the discharged shot is
wholly contained on the commercial shooting facility property.
(c) Changes to rifle or pistol range configuration or safety plan procedure shall not be
construed as a change requiring an amendment to an operating permit if the direction
of fire and safety structures are not altered and the safety procedures are not reduced.
(10) Renewal Applications. An application for renewal of an operating permit shall include a
current copy of the commercial shooting facility safety plan. Permit renewal does not require
the submittal of layout and design documents or a written evaluation by an RTTA or
professional engineer if the commercial shooting facility range design has not been altered
from previously approved submittals. However, the application must include a written
statement by the owner of the commercial shooting facility declaring that no such changes have
been made.
(11) Inspection Required. During the operating permit review or renewal process, the department
shall inspect the commercial shooting facility to determine that the ranges are consistent with
the application descriptions and to assess any deficiencies or corrective actions necessary to
meet the intent of this article. The department shall inform the applicant of any deficiencies or
corrective actions to be taken and allow a reasonable time for the owner or operator to take
corrective action. The department may reinspect the commercial shooting facility to verify
corrective action.
Commented [PH75]: This section should be considering
in connection with the vesting discussion about the original
permit.
22
(12) Appeal of Decisions on Applications. Application for a new or renewed operating permit shall
be processed, reviewed and be appealable under the procedures for a Type I administrator’s
decision pursuant to Section 18.40.260. Permit renewals shall be issued without additional
restrictions provided there have been no substantial changes to range design or operation.
Permit renewals may not be unreasonably withheld. Commercial shooting facilities shall be
allowed to continue operations while a review of a permit renewal is performed.
(13) Noncompliance. Upon receiving evidence of noncompliance with the operating permit or
receiving evidence of a reasonable likelihood that humans, domestic animals, or property have
been or will be jeopardized, the department will contact the commercial shooting facility within
one business day and will give the commercial shooting facility a written notice of the
complaint. The owner or operator shall make the commercial shooting facility available for
inspection not later than two business days after receiving a request for an inspection.
(a) If the department concludes there is a life safety violation of this article or the terms of
the operating permit, the department may suspend or modify the permit to close the
range or modify range operations and shall provide the owner or operator a written
notice that shall set forth each claimed violation with a specific reference to the
applicable article provision or permit condition. The owner or operator shall have thirty
days to respond in writing and to take any necessary corrective measures. The
department shall be provided access to the commercial shooting facility to verify
compliance after providing notice and scheduling an appointment. An operating permit
that has been suspended requires the commercial shooting facility to cease any firing
activities.
(b) A department decision to suspend, modify, or revoke an operating permit may be
appealed to the hearing examiner pursuant to the procedures for such an appeal in Title
18.
8.xx.040 Commercial shooting facility environmental controls.
(i) A requirement that the owner or operator maintain comprehensive general liability
insurance coverage, with a minimum coverage amount of one million dollars for each
occurrence and combined single limit during operation of the commercial shooting
facility;
(j) A requirement that certificates of insurance for all policies that provide insurance
coverage for the commercial shooting facility be provided to the department evidencing
Commented [PH76]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
Commented [PH77]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
Commented [PH78]: Modified slightly for clarity and to
change “integrated lead management program plan” to
environmental stewardship plan.
23
continuous insurance coverage required by the Operations Plan within fifteen (15) days
of approval Operations Permit that include:
i. The limits of coverage;
ii. The names and addresses of any certificate holders; and,
iii. A statement that the insurance policy shall not be canceled or allowed to expire
except on thirty (30) days prior written notice to the department.
(k) A requirement that the department be notified of any change in the insurance required by
the Operations Plan.
(6) Environmental Plan. The Environmental Plan shall contain all the elements required by JCC
8.xx.050.
(7) Professional Evaluation. The Professional Evaluation shall contain at least the following
elements:
(a) An evaluation of the operating permit application shall be performed by an NRA range
technical team advisor or a professional engineer with expertise in the design of shooting
ranges that reports any safety issues or proposed uses which are inconsistent with the
NRA Range Source Book for facility designs and institutional controls or qualified
consultant that meets the credentials previously stated. The evaluation shall be in written
form and signed by the evaluator;
(b) The department may, at county expense, arrange for an additional or independent
inspection and evaluation of the proposed commercial shooting facility, including the
commercial shooting facility’s uses and institutional controls described in an application
for an operating permit.
(c) If there is dispute between the evaluation provided by the commercial shooting facility
and the evaluation performed at the option of the county, the dispute shall be decided by
the hearing examiner pursuant to the procedures in JCC 18.05.080 and JCC 18.05.085.
(8) Certification. Every application for an operating permit shall be accompanied by a notarized
certification by the operator that the commercial shooting facility complies with this article,
meets commonly accepted shooting facility safety and design practices, and shall be operated
24
in a manner that protects the safety of all persons present at the commercial shooting facility
and the general public.
8.xx.050 Commercial Shooting Facility Environmental Controls.
(1) Each commercial shooting facility operator shall develop and submit an environmental
stewardship plan that shall be approved by the director to reclaim lead, cartridges and wadding
deposited by shooting activities. The director shall approve thisminimum requirements for an
environmental stewardship plan. are:
(a) BMPs for the daily collection and disposal of bullets and cartridges.
(b) BMPs for the daily collection and disposal of wadding from shotgun discharges.
(c) At indoor facilities, BMPs for lead at Indoor Shooting Ranges recommended by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in its 2009 publication
entitled NIOSH Alert – Preventing Exposures to Lead and Noise at Indoor Firing Ranges.
(d) At outdoor facilities, BMPs for lead at Outdoor Shooting Ranges recommended by USEPA
Region 2 in its 2005 publication entitled Best Management Practices for Outdoor Shooting
Ranges.
(e) BMPs for compliance with Chapter 173-60 WAC (maximum environmental noise levels)
as it exists now or hereafter is amended.
(2) The owner or operator shall provide a statement whether any hazardous substance or
hazardous waste shall be kept at the commercial shooting facility.
(3) If a statement is required by subsection (2), the Environmental Plan shall also include:
(a) A plan for compliance with requirements for the handling and closure of facilities for
storage or use of the hazardous substance or hazardous waste; and,
(b) A plan for financial assurance for addressing any remediation of hazardous substances or
hazardous waste.
8.xx.050060 Review committeeCommittee.
The Jefferson Countycounty board of commissioners may direct the director to establish a review
committee to evaluate proposed changes to the commercial shooting facility requirements
governed by this article. The review committee willshall consist of the director or the director’s
Commented [PH79]: Modified slightly for clarity and to
change “integrated lead management program plan” to
environmental stewardship plan.
25
designee (chair), Jefferson CountyThe county sheriff or the sheriff’s designee, a representative of
each currently permitted commercial shooting facility in unincorporated Jefferson Countyparts of
the county and an equal number of citizens at large appointed by the Jefferson Countycounty board
of commissioners. The citizens at large shall go through the appropriate application process. An
appointed citizen at large may not be a member of or affiliated with any established commercial
shooting facility in unincorporated Jefferson County..
8.xx.060070 Exceptions.
Commercial shooting facilities and ranges that solely conduct trap, skeet, sporting clay or five five-
stand shooting, skeet shooting, sport clay shooting and trap shooting range operations are exempt
from this article if they meet the following conditions: (1)
(1) Shells fired are not greater than No. 7-1/2 shot; and, (2)
(1)(2) The commercial shooting facility has sufficient land to contain all shot fired.
8.xx.070080 Limitations on Applicability of this Article.
Nothing in article shall be construed as:
(1) Authorizing an application or a permit for a commercial shooting facility to be located in
whole or in part in an area designated as an area where the discharge of firearms is
prohibited under Chapter 8.50 JCC.Chapter 8.50 JCC. Shooting ranges in such areas are
expressly prohibited.
(2) Permitting the discharge of firearms, the ownership or possession of which is otherwise
prohibited by law.
(3) Permitting the use or possession of a firearm by an individual who is otherwise prohibited
by law from owning or possessing that firearm.
(4) Allowing or authorizing the discharge of firearms otherwise prohibited by state or federal
law.
(5) Allowing the discharge of tracer or incendiary ammunition at any commercial shooting
facility.
Commented [MM80]: I agree.
Commented [PH81]: Jefferson County did not follow this
approach for this review committee.
Commented [PH82]: Jefferson County did not follow this
approach for this review committee.
Commented [MF83R82]: I find it useful having such a
member on our committee.
Commented [PH84]: This section was modified
substantially to address issues discussed at the 9/13/18
review committee meeting. This section makes clear what is
not covered by the ordinance and points out prohibitions
already existing in state and federal law that would prevent
certain activities about which citizens have expressed
concerns.
Commented [PH85]: Janet Welch requested that
limitations from the Gig Harbor ordinance be added as
follows:
Exemptions
added from Gig Harbor, need to revisit with respect to
indoor facilities
The terms of this chapter shall not apply to indoor shooting
ranges, public outdoor shooting ranges developed and
operating as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in
this chapter, private outdoor shooting ranges where no fee is
charged or membership required for the use of the facility
and where firing occurs less than five times per month by
other than the property owner or lessee, or to ranges used
exclusively for archery; provided, any expansion of a public
outdoor shooting range beyond that developed and operating
as of the effective date of said ordinance, or beyond the
terms of a permit issued hereunder, shall require issuance of
a new special use permit and the total facility shall be subject
to the standards of this chapter. [Ord. 96-076, § 4, 5-6-96.]
However, I believe all these issues are covered in this section
or in the limitations on the definition of commercial shooting
facility.
Commented [PH86]: This was changed to cite the correct
provision in the JCC.
26
(6) Allowing or authorizing the discharge of a destructive device as that term is defined in 25
U.S.C. Section 5845(f) as it now exists or hereafter may be amended or any explosive as
that term is defined in RCW 70.74.010(5) as it now exists or hereafter may be amended.
(7) Allowing or authorizing the discharge of a machine gun as that term is defined in 26 U.S.C.
Section 5845(b) or RCW 9.41.010(17), as they now exists or hereafter may be amended,
unless specifically authorized under RCW 9.41.190(3)..
(8) Allowing or authorizing the discharge of a short-barreled rifle or a short-barreled shotgun
as those terms are defined in RCW 9.41.010, as they now exists or hereafter may be
amended, unless specifically authorized under RCW 9.41.190(3)..
(9) Permitting commercial shooting facility to maintain or create a public nuisance as defined
in Chapter 7.48 RCW, JCC 5.10.050, JCC 8.20.140, JCC 8.30.020, JCC 8.55.070, Chapter
8.70 JCC, JCC 15.05.100, or Chapter 18.10 JCC, as they now exist or hereafter may be
amended.
(10) Abridging or altering the rights of action by the state, by the county or by persons, which
exist in equity, common law, or other statutes to abate pollution or to abate a nuisance.
(11) Limiting a court of competent jurisdiction from ruling that a commercial shooting facility
has been found to create a public nuisance, requiring additional noise, environmental or
safety controls as a condition of continuing an operation of a commercial shooting facility.
(12) Nullifying or rendering void the terms of any existing or future injunctive order issued by
a court of competent jurisdiction pertaining to operations or activities at a shooting range
or commercial shooting facility.
Commented [PH87]: This section exempts peace officers
and members of the armed forces in the discharge of official
duty.
Commented [MF88R87]: What about WDFW folks?
Commented [PH89R87]: They are peace officers—see
RCW 77.15.075(1).
Commented [PH90]: This section exempts peace officers
and members of the armed forces in the discharge of official
duty.