Target Shooting

Many people enjoy target shooting and plinking in open country. When participating in this activity, shooters must be aware of federal and state gun laws covering National Forest System lands. The following is information that will give you a better understanding of regulations and guidelines relating to the discharge of firearms on your national forest so that your visit will be a safe and enjoyable one.  Forest Order # 03-09-00-22-12: Target Type Restrictions prohibits use of refuse as targets. More

 

CONCERNS:

Problems that may arise when shooting on open national forest land include:
•Safety of other forest visitors
•Disturbance of other forest visitors
•Littering: targets and shell casings, etc.
•Starting wildfires
•Damage to private or public property
•Damage to natural features such as cactus and wildlife

REGULATIONS:

Regulations covering National Forest System Lands are found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36. As listed in 36 CFR 261.9 and 261.10, the following are prohibited:

  • Shooting within 150-yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site or occupied area
  • Shooting across or on a forest road
  • Shooting across or on a body of water adjacent to a forest road
  • Shooting in any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage
  • Damaging any natural feature or other property of the United States
  • ArizonaState law prohibits shooting from a vehicle while hunting and authorities also consider “road-shooting” as endangerment.
  • Regional Order Prohibits Explosives (Including Explosive Targets) on Forests in Arizona and New Mexico (2 MB PDF)

THINK BEFORE YOU SHOOT:

  • The sound of gunfire can make people nervous (even when done safely). Stay comfortably away from other forest visitors.
  • Be certain of your target and backstop.
  • Know the effective range and maximum range of the firearm and ammunition you are using.
  • Do not leave targets or other debris. Remove shell casings -- especially shotgun shells.
  • Do not use glass objects as targets.
  • If someone else is shooting, don’t crowd in on him or her.

A WORD TO THE WISE:

The information contained in this guide is for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for the law. You are fully accountable for knowing the laws and regulations governing use of firearms.

REFERENCES:

• Arizona Hunting Regulation, Arizona Game & Fish Department
• Arizona revised Statues, Title 13
• Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36

 

RESOURCES:

  • Visit the Bureau of Land Management website for more information and safety tips for shooting on public lands.
  • More information, locations of shooting ranges, shooting classes, and more visit the Arizona Game & Fish web site.

Target Shooting Areas

Alerts & Warnings

View All Alerts   

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities