Hayden mulls firearms change

HAYDEN - The Hayden City Council tonight will consider amending its firearms ordinance.

The current ordinance states that it's unlawful for any person to discharge a firearm within the city, with the exception of law enforcement officers, Fish and Game officials, or military honor guards. A person may also discharge a firearm on properties zoned for agricultural use, if the discharge is for slaughtering animals.

The proposed amendments would add language to the ordinance saying a person may discharge a firearm in the lawful defense of people or property, or while on a sport shooting range.

Hayden City Attorney John Cafferty said the additions are straight from Idaho code.

"It's to remain consistent with state law," Cafferty said Monday, "and avoid confusion for citizens and law enforcement."

The attorney said Idaho code was amended this year.

Idaho code states that a city may adopt ordinances to regulate, restrict or prohibit the discharge of firearms within its boundaries. But, the code adds, such ordinances adopted may not apply to or affect a person's right to discharge a firearm in lawful defense of people or property.

The council is scheduled to vote on the amendments at 5 tonight at City Hall at 8930 N. Government Way.