This chapter may be known and may be cited as the "Middle Smithfield
Township Firearms and Projectile Weapons Ordinance" of 2013.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated, unless the context shall clearly indicate otherwise:
FIREARM
Any of the following:
A.
An instrument used in the propulsion of shot, shell, bullet
or any other object by the action of gunpowder exploded, explosive
powder, the expansion of gas or the force of a mechanical device under
tension; or
B.
Guns commonly referred to as air guns, air pistols, spring guns,
BB guns.
PROJECTILE WEAPON
An instrument or implement, other than a firearm, impelling
with force a projectile and capable of causing bodily injury or damage
to property, including, but not limited to, the following:
A.
Bow and arrow, including crossbows; and
Except as herein otherwise provided, the discharge of any firearm
or projectile weapon on or through Township-owned property is prohibited.
Any such discharge contrary to the provisions of this chapter shall
constitute a public or common nuisance, dangerous to life, limb and
property of Township residents.
The prohibition in §
104-4 of this chapter shall not be construed to apply in any manner to:
A. The justifiable use of force as authorized by Chapter 5 of the Pennsylvania
Crimes Code;
B. Authorized military or law enforcement officers acting in the line
of duty;
C. The discharge of any firearm for the sole purpose of signaling for
aid or assistance while in distress;
D. Any other use of a firearm protected by the federal or Pennsylvania
constitutions and statutes, or regulations thereunder.
The provisions of this chapter may be enforced by any law enforcement
officer of the commonwealth, the Township Zoning Officer, the Township
Code Enforcement Officer, or any other person authorized by resolution
of the Board of Supervisors.