Firearm Discharge Rules

Assistant City Attorney Wachowicz wrote an article for the East Shore Drive Neighborhood Association newsletter about the hunting situation. Discharge of a firearm within the East Shore Drive and Nicolet Drive Neighborhood Associations illegal per Green Bay ordinance 27.603.

Police Chief Arts sends out this summary of the rules which states, "They must be however 200 feet away from waterline where it is zoned residential."

While the city ends at the water line, Brown County ordinance (31.02(3)) says it's a violation when someone, "Engages in the discharging of a firearm in the waters of Green Bay within the geographic limits of Brown County in that area; which is within 100 feet of the bulkhead shoreline as determined by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and also which is located adjacent to shorelands zoned residential by the adjoining municipality." My understanding is that the bulkhead line is the middle of the dike in most places but only west of about the 2700 block of East Shore Drive. The county will have all the details on this one...

Of course, The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has laws covering hunting. Also, here's a list of hunting seasons.

So what happens when someone violates the law? There are those few who choose to ignore or stretch the law but most are simply unaware that there are any applicable local laws. In the past, I have printed out a copy of the city ordinance and hand delivered it. I know that other constituents have also approached hunters and politely let them know that they are breaking the law when shooting while from the land. Ignorance of the law is no excuse but education of the law can bring the desired results more quickly. It can also be an uncomfortable situation. Don't try it if you are too uncomfortable or fear for your safety!

To report violations of the city or county ordinances, contact the Green Bay Police Department 448-3200. Green Bay Officers are authorized to enforce county ordinances each year. If it's an emergency situation call 911 instead.

The Wisconsin DNR phone number for questitons is 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463). The 24 hour tipline to report violations is 1-800-TIP-WDNR (1-800-847-9367).

The Chief of Police has designated Commander Lisa Sterr (rhymes with chair) as the point person for this issue. If you have concerns about enforcement please feel free to contact the Commander at LisaSt@ci.green-bay.wi.us or her direct line 448-3186. Of course, you can contact me as well. If the violation is ongoing, please call the police first!