San Carlos bans BB gun use

“It’s good that an issue was brought forward and we developed a solution rather efficiently,” Mayor John Dugan said. 

The updated definition includes air rifles, BB guns, bow and arrows, and “any other weapon of a similar nature design to discharge a projectile propelled by the expansion of a gas, explosion or other combustion, or through a spring or any other device design to throw a sling or otherwise project any solid object.”

City Attorney Greg Rubens said it was important to include any weapon where “impromptu target shooting in backyards” could result in projectiles crossing property lines. BBs can travel up to 50 yards, pellets up to 100, and bow and arrows up to 400, he said. 

Other cities in the county regulate similarly defined firearms, including Burlingame, Redwood City and San Mateo. 

Further code amendment also clarified that the update regulations are to remain consistent with state and federal law, and exemptions for matters such as self-defense remain unchanged.

Vice Mayor Sara McDowell and Councilmember Pranita Venkatesh said the expanded definition should be addressed in the city’s safe storage ordinance as well.

At a future date, the City Council will consider designating locations in downtown for short-term parking for food service pickups, either by residents or delivery workers, to avoid abundant ticket citations for illegal parking. As the city looks to implement its recently approved street design concept for its downtown, this short-term parking would be considered for the interim, Councilmember Adam Rak said.

Another item requested to be on future agendas include a report from the Chamber San Mateo County —  San Carlos is one of four cities represented in the association — and establish a precedent to receive such a report annually.