When used in this chapter, the following words
shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except in
those instances where the context clearly indicates a different meaning
or renders the meaning defined herein absurd:
DISCHARGE
The firing or shooting of any firearm.
FIREARM
Shotgun, air gun, air pistol, spring gun or pistol, rifles
and pistols of any caliber or any implement used in the propulsion
of shot, a shell, a bullet or any other object by the action of gun
powder exploded, explosive powder, the expansion of gas or the force
of a mechanical device under tension.
PERSON
Any natural person, firm, copartnership, association or corporation
or any other legal entity as the context requires.
Except as herein otherwise provided, it shall
be unlawful and it is hereby prohibited for any person to discharge
a firearm on private or public property within the confines of Franconia
Township.
[Amended 2-17-2015 by Ord. No. 382]
Nothing herein contained shall prohibit the use of firearms
as herein defined by:
A. Constables, sheriffs, prison or jail wardens or their deputies, police
officers of this commonwealth or its political subdivisions or other
law enforcement officers, while in the performance of their duties.
B. Any person engaged in hunting as defined and regulated by the Pennsylvania
Game and Wildlife Code.
C. Any person over the age of 18 years using a firearm to control wildlife
in the protection of cultivated crops, fruit trees, vegetables, livestock,
poultry or other property; provided, however, that such use of a firearm
shall comply with the requirements of the Pennsylvania Game and Wildlife
Code.
D. Any person engaged in lawful self-defense.
[Amended 6-10-1996 by Ord. No. 237]
This chapter shall be enforced by action brought
before a District Justice in the same manner provided for the enforcement
of summary offenses under the Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Any person who violates or permits the violation of this chapter shall,
upon conviction in a summary proceeding, be punishable by a fine of
not more than $1,000 per violation or by imprisonment for a term not
exceeding 90 days. Each section of this chapter that is violated shall
constitute a separate offense.