Setting Up a Private Shooting Range: Permits, Safety, and Costs

Setting up a private shooting range is an exciting endeavor, but it involves a lot of considerations, especially when it comes to permits, safety, and costs. This article will delve into the specifics, provide guidance on how to navigate the permitting process, ensure safety, and address costs.

Permits and Jurisdiction

One of the first and most critical aspects to consider when setting up a shooting range is obtaining the necessary permits. These permits are jurisdictional, meaning they depend on where you live, which is why a detailed answer often involves knowing exactly what jurisdiction you are operating in.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Range

The type of range (indoor or outdoor) you plan to set up will significantly affect your considerations and requirements.

Outdoor Range

An outdoor range requires a substantial amount of property to be safe and compliant with regulations. You need to ensure that there is a "30-degree range fan," a 30-degree angle from the left- and right-most firing points, with a clear area at least a couple of miles behind the impact berm. This configuration is essential to prevent projectiles from causing harm.

Additionally, managing lead containment is a significant challenge for outdoor ranges, especially for long-existing ones. New ranges can better manage lead disposal, but long-standing ranges often face this problem. Effective measures are required to ensure lead is contained or contained and cleaned up.

Indoor Range

An indoor range offers several advantages, including easier compliance with safety regulations. Key aspects include proper ventilation, air filtration for particulate lead, a suitable backstop for fired bullets, and materials to prevent ricochets.

Primary Health Hazards

In an indoor range, the primary health hazard is lead from the primer “ash,” which can be fine dust. It is crucial to keep the area clean and to use proper dust filtration masks when cleaning. Regularly change your air handler filters and dispose of them legally, as they will be considered hazardous waste. Lead bullets, on the other hand, are recyclable metals.

Cost Considerations

The cost of setting up a shooting range can vary greatly based on the type of range and the jurisdiction where it is located. Here are some cost considerations:

Labor and setup: Hiring contractors and purchasing equipment can be expensive. For example, an individual might hire an excavator at a favorable rate during a slower season to install underground pipes for a budget of about $25,000. Permitting: Obtaining the necessary permits can also be costly. Some jurisdictions may charge fees for these permits. Environmental and safety measures: Implementing ventilation, air filtration, and lead containment systems adds to the overall cost.

Success Stories

There are success stories of individuals who have set up shooting ranges in unconventional ways. A friend of mine in a high-end suburban area tried to build a pistol range but was unable to safely do so due to population density. Instead, he buried his range using storm sewer piping. This unconventional setup cost about $25,000 and allowed him to comply with safety regulations.

The project was permitted through the proper channels, and he allowed local law enforcement to use it freely. He was also open with his neighbors about the range, ensuring transparency. When he sold his house, the range added nearly $200,000 to the price, which is a testament to the value of having a shooting range.

For others, traditional methods also prove effective, but it is crucial to ensure that all necessary permits and safety measures are in place to avoid legal and safety issues.

Conclusion

Setting up a private shooting range is a complex but rewarding endeavor that requires careful consideration of permits, safety measures, and costs. Regardless of whether you opt for an indoor or outdoor range, ensuring compliance with regulations and prioritizing safety are paramount. With proper planning and execution, a shooting range can not only enhance your shooting experience but also add significant value to your property.