Media Release - New Firearms Bylaw Makes Pellet Guns Illegal in West Vancouver
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
West Vancouver, BC: Based on community concern for public safety, Council has approved the implementation of a Firearms Regulation for West Vancouver. While the federal Firearms Act regulates guns capable of firing a projectile at a velocity over 152.4 metres per second, it does not regulate guns which fire at a slower velocity, including air or spring guns, commonly known as pellet guns. The new bylaw will make discharging pellet guns in West Vancouver illegal.
Mayor Pamela Goldsmith-Jones says: "This is a matter of public safety and in direct response to community concern. Supported by the police and our bylaw officers, this bylaw will protect residents, wildlife and property, and address the complaints we have received related to pellet guns."
The new bylaw will make it illegal to set or discharge a spring gun anywhere within the District as well as any other firearm, crossbow or longbow. The focus in the coming months will be to inform the public of this new bylaw and take an educational approach; however, bylaw officers and the police will now have the ability to take enforcement measures as required.
About the District of West Vancouver
The District of West Vancouver is the local government led by Mayor Pamela Goldsmith-Jones and Council. Home to more than 44,000 residents, West Vancouver is a local government which strives to "inspire excellence and lead by example". Our Vision and Mission guide us to pursue our treasured quality of life and will be the measure of our success as a community. West Vancouver is a community built on innovation, a strong spirit of personal civic commitment and a deep value for relationships.
Media Contact:
Jessica Delaney, Director of Communications
Cell: 604-360-8131
Direct: 604-925-4736