Bow and Arrow Use Now Restricted in Farmington Hills

Farmington Hills City Council members unanimously approved a firearms ordinance amendment that tightens up restrictions on the use of bows and arrows within city limits. 

Though the new rules restricts use of the weapons except on practice ranges or on a homeowner's own property, one resident believes the ordinance did not go far enough. 

The new ordinance allows the use of bows in a safe manner, shooting only at artificial targets, and in a manner that prevents arrows from landing on someone else's property. The previous ordinance did not restrict use of bows and crossbows within city limits. 

City Attorney Steve Joppich said the draft included language banning "razor tip" arrows, added when the amendment was introduced Aug. 27. 

But resident Genevieve Terry told officials, with the exception of police, "no citizen, including sports enthusiasts, should be allowed to shoot with anything." She said "people take advantage of every loophole they can get out of a law" and cited the change in the state fireworks law, which resulted in complaints in Farmington Hills and throughout the state. 

Terry said banning bows and arrows would protect animals and human beings. The question of  first came up in November 2011, after  by arrows in south Farmington Hills neighborhoods.

Council members pointed out that the new ordinance is tougher than what was already on the books. 

"Before this ordinance amendment, you could shoot a bow and arrow anywhere in the city," council member Randy Bruce said. "This actually increases restrictions on the use of firearms." 

Council Member Richard Lerner noted the city does not have the authority to restrict hunting, which is governed by the Dept. of Natural Resources. 

Officials encouraged Terry to read the existing ordinance and compare it to the new rules. 

"This law takes it to the limit of what we are allowed to do," council member Ken Massey said.