Hunting Ban Proposed In Peachtree Corners

A ban on all hunting and recreational archery shooting could come as a result of a proposed ordinance that will be discussed at a Peachtree Corners City Council meeting tonight, Oct. 18.

In addition to hunters, the proposed ordinance apparently would affect archers who like to target practice in their own yards. The wording of the Peachtree Corners proposal states, “It shall be unlawful to discharge any firearm, air gun, BB gun, bow, crossbow or any missile within the residential areas of the City of Peachtree Corners.”

The proposal will be discussed tonight, and Gwinnett County sportsmen have been spreading the word today in hopes to fill the room with hunters and recreational archery shooters.

While the wording from the Peachtree Corners proposal mentions an ordinance “to ban hunting,” municipalities don’t have that authority. Only state law and regulation can restrict hunting. Cities and counties do have the authority to regulate weapons discharge when there are issues with public safety.

GON tried several times to reach Peachtree Corners Mayor Mike Mason for a phone interview. He sent a statement by e-mail as to why the ban was on the table.

“Currently, it is not illegal to hunt in Peachtree Corners with a gun or bow,” said Mayor Mike Mason. “The ordinance to ban hunting with a gun or bow in residential areas comes from the numerous complaints that have been received from citizens who are concerned with their own safety as well as the safety of their children and neighbors.”