Kirkland May Ban Firing Guns In Most Circumstances

KIRKLAND, WA — Technically, it's not illegal in Kirkland to, for example, go out into your backyard and do some target shooting. But activities like that — rare as they might be — will likely soon be illegal in the city.

The Kirkland City Council is considering a change in city code to ban the discharge of guns except in a few circumstances, like if you're a police officer or if you're defending yourself.

Under state law, cities can restrict "the discharge of firearms in any portion of their respective jurisdictions where there is a reasonable likelihood that humans, domestic animals, or property will be jeopardized." Other local cities, like Issaquah and Redmond, have used state law to enact similar weapons discharge bans.

On Tuesday, the City Council will discuss adding the discharge ban to city code. The Council will not vote on the change on Tuesday, however. The ban would also exempt licensed rifle or pistol shooting ranges in the city.

You can read about this and other items up for discussion at the April 2 Council meeting here.