🔫 Firearms & Dangerous Weapons Ordinance – Town of Polk

To ensure public safety, the Town of Polk regulates the use and discharge of firearms and other dangerous weapons under Ordinance Chapter 176. Below is a summary of the key provisions:

🔍 Definitions

• Firearm: Any weapon that expels a projectile by gunpowder, compressed air, or gas.
• Other Dangerous Weapons: Includes bows, crossbows, slingshots, blowguns, and similar devices.

🚫 Discharge Restrictions

It is unlawful to discharge a firearm or dangerous weapon:

• Carelessly or recklessly, endangering people or property.
• Within 500 feet of any building used for human occupancy (excluding mobile units) without permission.
• Within 100 feet of the centerline of any paved road.
• On Town-owned land or public land, unless specifically authorized by state law.
• Toward adjacent properties unless written permission is obtained from the neighboring property owner.

🎯 Shooting Ranges

• Discharge is allowed at permitted shooting ranges if all rules, permit conditions, and laws are followed.

🦌 Hunting Season Note

• The Town of Polk does not restrict the caliber of firearms used during legal hunting seasons. However, hunters must still comply with Wisconsin DNR regulations, which require the use of centerfire cartridges of at least .22 caliber for deer hunting 

📜 State Law Adoption

The ordinance incorporates several Wisconsin statutes, including:

• Safe use and transport of firearms and bows
• Handgun purchase waiting periods
• Concealed carry licensing

⚖️ Legal Protections

• Actions justified under Wis. Stat. § 939.45 (privileged defenses) are not restricted by this ordinance.

💵 Penalties

Violations are subject to penalties as outlined in Chapter 1, Article IV of the Town Code.

For full ordinance details, visit the Town of Polk Ordinances Page.