Illegal Gunfire


What counts as illegal gunfire?

Common examples include:

  • Celebratory gunfire (shooting into the air)
  • Target practice in neighborhoods
  • Reckless shooting within city limits
  • Firing a gun in streets, parks or residential areas

Pull the trigger. Pay the price.

Even if no one is injured, illegal gunfire can have serious consequences for the person who pulls the trigger, including:

  • Thousands of dollars in fines
  • Criminal charges
  • Jail time
  • A permanent felony record

In Fort Worth, illegal gunfire is a serious crime with real consequences.

When is gunfire legal?

Firearms may be discharged in limited circumstances, including:

  • Lawful self-defense when facing an immediate threat
  • At approved shooting ranges
  • Certain large rural properties that meet Texas acreage and safety requirements
  • Official law-enforcement duties

Outside of these situations, firing a gun within city limits is AGAINST THE LAW.

Why celebratory gunfire is dangerous

Bullets fired into the air don’t just disappear. They will come down somewhere, damaging homes or vehicles or worse ... putting innocent lives at risk.

Did you know?

  • Celebratory gunfire injuries are most often inflicted on the head and feet and can cause serious injuries or death.      
  • Stray bullet deaths and injuries occur on New Year's Eve and the Fourth of July at higher rates than on any other day. 

Bullets travel farther and faster than you think

Did you know?

  1. A bullet can travel up to 1–3 miles before hitting the ground. That means a shot fired in one neighborhood could land far beyond where it was discharged.

    March_24_Illegal_Gun_Fire_Infographics_Bullet_Travel_Distance-1.jpg

     

  2. A 9 mm handgun bullet can travel two to 10 times faster than an F1 car at top speed.

    March_24_Illegal_Gun_Fire_Infographics_Speed_Comparison-1.jpg

    Speed comparison (feet per second)
    • High-speed train (419 fps)
    • F1 car (554 fps)
    • Commercial jet (880 fps)
    • Bullet (1,200 fps)

What to do if you hear gunfire

If you hear gunshots in your neighborhood, don’t ignore it. Report it.

  • Move to a safe location
  • Call 911 immediately

Your call could help officers respond quickly and prevent someone from being hurt or killed.

For non-emergencies, call 817-392-4222.  

Help STOP illegal gunfire in Fort Worth

A single shot can impact lives forever.

Responsible gun ownership protects families, neighbors and the entire community.

If you own firearms:

  • Follow all local and state laws
  • Store them securely
  • Never fire a weapon in residential areas

Community safety starts with awareness

Together, Fort Worth residents can help prevent illegal gunfire and keep our community safe.

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