A proposed gun ordinance under review by Charleston County Council could soon bring much-needed restrictions to unincorporated areas, where firing weapons is currently less regulated. The move comes after residents and community leaders, particularly in West Ashley, voiced concerns about frequent and unsettling gunfire near homes, churches, and schools.
One such place is St. Mark United Methodist Church, where staff say the sound of gunshots is a regular disturbance, and more importantly, a safety concern.
Gunfire Too Close for Comfort at St. Mark Church
Senior Minister Mike Bruce of St. Mark Church shared that there have been multiple incidents where nearby gunfire disrupted church activities and endangered children.
“When the neighbor started firing his guns in his backyard at his targets, we immediately had to evacuate the kids off the playground,” Bruce recalled.
He also noted another instance where churchgoers heard gunfire while standing in the parking lot, causing fear and concern.
The church, although surrounded by the city, falls into an unincorporated part of West Ashley, a “donut hole” in local zoning where city ordinances prohibiting gunfire near homes don’t apply.
“Even though everything around us is the city, we’re actually in the county,” Bruce explained.
What the New Gun Ordinance Proposes
The ordinance, proposed by Councilmember Brantley Moody, aims to tighten firearm use in unincorporated areas. If approved, it would make it illegal to negligently discharge a firearm within 100 feet of any building or dwelling, unless the shooter has express permission from the occupants.
Key points of the proposed ordinance:
Bans negligent discharge of firearms
Prohibits firing within 100 feet of buildings or homes
Requires explicit consent from property occupants for nearby shooting
Would apply only to unincorporated areas of Charleston County
Would become effective upon third reading and approval by County Council
Community Voices Support for Safety, Not Firearm Ban
Church staff and neighborhood residents say they’re not against gun ownership or use, but are pushing for clearer boundaries and safer practices.
“We have no beef against firing guns. We just want it done in a safe way, in a safe place. And it’s just not a safe place,” said Bruce.
With families walking children home from church, and kids playing outdoors, community leaders believe it’s time for the county to step in with common-sense rules.
Council Vote Scheduled for September 11
The Charleston County Council is set to vote on the ordinance during its meeting on Thursday, September 11, at 5:00 p.m. in the County Council Chambers. If passed on third reading, the ordinance will become law.
Residents concerned about gun safety or in support of the proposal are encouraged to attend the meeting or contact their councilmember.
