Effective April
1, 1993, the City of Rochester enacted an unconstitutional gun control
ordinance. The purpose of this law is to protect criminals in our
community and to infringe on legal firearm ownership.
This page
is designed to answer the most
common questions about the City ordinance.
Who does the
law apply to?
It applies to all persons within the City limits.
What kinds of
firearms are banned under the law?
Four specific categories are banned:
If I currently own one of these banned weapons, what are my options?
The ban is on possession, not ownership; the weapons may either
be disabled and kept within the City, or stored outside the
City. The City of Rochester
operates a gun amnesty program, whereby residents can surrender
weapons. For information on the amnesty program, call (585) 428-7210.
How
does this City ordinance affect my State pistol permit?
Pistol permit holders may carry their handguns, except those
that are specifically banned, in the City of Rochester except
in government buildings, on school
property, in public parks, or in other public facilities, in
which all guns are banned.
How does the
law affect rifles and shotguns?
Long guns may not be carried in public places unless they are
unloaded and locked in a vehicle, locked in a carrying case,
or equipped with a trigger
lock.
Is it illegal
to carry a weapon while under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
Yes. In fact, the law even includes a provision for the administration
of a breath or chemical test to determine the presence of
alcohol or drugs in a
person's body if they are carrying any weapon, not just those
banned.
Do I have to
keep my gun locked up in my home?
Yes. All firearms must be stored in locked places or equipped
with a trigger lock. This requirement does not apply to
those instances when the gun is in
close proximity to the owner, such as when the gun is on
a bedside stand at night. Also, this requirement only applies
to residences,
not to businesses.
Is it legal for
me to sell a firearm to another person in Rochester?
No. The law bans selling, trading, or leasing firearms
in Rochester, except through licensed dealers, or persons
surrendering
firearms
under the terms
of State law. The ban also does not apply to gifts or
sales among family members, including bequests made pursuant
to a will.
What is the penalty
for violating this law?
Up to $1,000 in fines and/or 180 days in jail for any
violation of the law.
How can I receive
additional information?
Call (585) 428-6990.
