HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 6.1 Zoning Ordinance Amendments to Regulate Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges (PLPA-004331-2026) Agenda Item 6.1
STAFF REPORT
PLANNING COMMISSION
Page 1 of 5
DATE: October 27, 2026
TO: Planning Commission
SUBJECT:
Zoning Ordinance Amendments to Regulate Firearms Retailers and Indoor
Shooting Ranges (PLPA-004331-2026)
Prepared by: Jennifer Byous, Planning Manager
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Planning Commission will consider and make a recommendation to the City Council
regarding City-initiated amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to regulate firearms retailers and
indoor shooting ranges. Amendments are proposed to Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.08
(Definitions), Chapter 8.30 (Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off -Street Parking
and Loading Regulations), and Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance). In addition, proposed
amendments include a new chapter, Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting
Ranges). The amendments would establish development regulations and permitting
requirements for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges. The Planning Commission will
also consider a recommendation that the City Council find the amendments exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Conduct the public hearing, deliberate, and adopt the Resolution recommending City Council
approval of amendments to Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.08 (Definitions), Chapter 8.30
(Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations),
and Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance), and the addition of Cha pter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and
Indoor Shooting Ranges).
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DESCRIPTION:
Background
The Zoning Ordinance currently regulates firearms retailers as retail uses in zoning districts
where general retail is permitted. Indoor shooting ranges are regulated as Recreational
Facility/Indoor uses. For purposes of this report, firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges
are collectively referred to as firearm-related uses unless otherwise specified.
The City received an inquiry regarding a proposed firearms retailer and indoor shooting range
adjacent to BASIS Independent School in Downtown Dublin. Although the proposed use was
permitted under the zoning regulations in effect at that time, the inquiry raised questions
regarding land use compatibility and whether additional objective zoning standards should
apply to firearm-related uses. Some of those questions concerned state and federal laws that
restrict firearm possession withing 1,000 feet of a school, which contain exceptions that would
have allowed the proposed use.
On January 20, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Interim Ordinance No. 01 -26
establishing a 45-day moratorium on the establishment, expansion, and relocation of firearm-
related uses. On March 3, 2026, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 02-26 extending the
moratorium through January 21, 2027. The moratorium allows the City to evaluate the federal,
state, and local regulatory framework for firearm-related uses and consider permanent zoning
standards.
On September 1, 2026, the City Council received an informational report from Staff regarding
federal and state regulations for firearm-related uses, case law under the Second Amendment
of the United States Constitution, approaches used by other jurisdictio ns, and three separation
scenarios. The City Council provided direction to mirror the current City of Dublin tobacco
retailer standard pertaining to the 500-foot and 1,000-foot separation requirements from
specified uses, but exclude the requirement for separation between retailers and ranges. In
addition, City Council directed Staff to further evaluation of documentation demonstrating
compliance with applicable workplace safety and environmental requirements for indoor
shooting ranges.
Proposed Project
The City has initiated amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to establish development
regulations and permitting requirements for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges.
Amendments are proposed to Dublin Municipal Code (DMC) Chapter 8.08 (Definitions),
Chapter 8.30 (Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off -Street Parking and Loading
Regulations), and Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance). In addition, the amendments would add a
new chapter, Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Rang es). The requirements
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applicable to firearms retailers do not apply to firearm sales or transfers conducted as a home
occupation in compliance with the City’s Home Occupations Regulations.
Analysis
Below is a summary of the proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments.
DMC Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges): – The key policy changes
are in a new chapter, DMC Chapter 8.39. It establishes development standards and regulations
and a permitting procedure for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges. Those provisions
would include the following:
Permitted locations. Firearms retailers would only be allowed in the C-1 and C-2 Zoning
Districts, comparable Planned Development Zoning Districts, and the Downtown Dublin
Zoning District where Retail - General is permitted. Indoor shooting ranges are
considered a Recreational Facility/Indoor and are permitted in the C -1, C-2, M-P, M-1,
and M-2 Zoning Districts and the Downtown Dublin Zoning District where Recreational
Facility/Indoor is permitted. Firearms sales as an accessory use to an indoor shooting
range would be permitted.
Separation standards. A minimum distance of 1,000 feet would be required from a
proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range to a public or private K-12 school
and 500 feet would be required to a playground, youth center, City-owned and
operated recreational facility, park, or library.
Construction and safety standards. Indoor shooting ranges would be required to include
impenetrable walls, floor, and ceiling, adequate ventilation and lighting systems, and
acoustical treatment for sound attenuation.
Ministerial approval. A proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range would
require ministerial approval of a Zoning Clearance and would be required to meet all the
objective standards identified in DMC Chapter 8.39, including required licenses, hours of
operation between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., required parking, and qualification for a
CEQA exemption.
Indoor shooting range documentation. A building permit would be required for an
indoor shooting range and must include documentation prepared by a qualified design
professional addressing ventilation, filtration, and related environmental-control
systems. Prior to occupancy, additional documentation would be required to
demonstrate that the systems were installed and tested in accordance with the
approved design.
Annual review. The operator of an indoor shooting range would be required to submit
documentation, at least 30 days prior to annual business licen se renewal,
demonstrating continued compliance with applicable federal and state operational
requirements.
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DMC Chapter 8.08 (Definitions) – (Definitions): Amendments are proposed to add definitions
for Firearms Retailer and Indoor Shooting Range and to cl arify that an indoor shooting range is
a Recreational Facility/Indoor use.
DMC Chapter 8.30 (Downtown Dublin Zoning District): – Amendments are proposed to clarify
that firearms retailers are regulated in the Downtown Dublin Zoning District the same way a s in
the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts and indoor shooting ranges are regulated in the same way as
Recreational Facility/Indoor uses.
DMC Chapter 8.76 (Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations): – An amendment is proposed
to add a parking requirement for indoor shooting ranges of 1.5 spaces per firing lane. This
requirement is based on the National Rifle Association’s Range Source Book.
DMC Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance): – Amendments are proposed to add firearms retailers
and indoor shooting ranges to the uses requiring a Zoning Clearance and to establish
application, approval, and expiration procedures.
A draft Planning Commission Resolution recommending City Council approval of the proposed
amendments is included as Attachment 1 with the draft Ordinance included as Attachment 2. A
redlined version of the proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments is included as Attachment 3,
where underlined text is proposed to be added and text with a strikethrough is proposed to be
deleted.
Consistency with the General Plan, Specific Plans, and Zoning Ordinance
The proposed amendments are consistent with the Dublin General Plan and applicable Specific
Plans because they retain firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges as allowed uses in
designated commercial and industrial areas while establishing objective standards to address
land use compatibility and public health and safety. The amendments do not change any
General Plan or Specific Plan land use designation or the development intensity allowed on any
property. The City's land use comparison analysis shows that approximately 758 acres, or
approximately 67 percent, of the City's approximately 1,136 acres of commercial and industrial
land lie outside the separation areas established by this Ordinance, so that reasonable
opportunities remain for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges to locate in the City.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), together with State Guidelines and City of
Dublin CEQA Guidelines and Procedures, require that certain projects be reviewed for
environmental impacts and that environmental documents b e prepared. The proposed Zoning
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Ordinance Amendments are exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to CEQA
Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because the Project imposes additional location and permitting
restrictions on uses that are already allowed and does not authorize any new development,
and it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the Project would have a
significant effect on the environment and is not subject to CEQA review.
NOTICING REQUIREMENTS/PUBLIC OUTREACH:
In accordance with State law, a 20-day public notice was published in the East Bay Times and
posted at several locations throughout the City. Additionally, the Planning Commission Agenda
was posted.
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Resolution Recommending City Council Approval of Zoning Ordinance Amendments
2) Exhibit A to Resolution: City Council Ordinance Approving Zoning Ordinance Amendments
3) Redlined Zoning Ordinance Amendments
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Attachment 1
Reso. No. 26-XX, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 1 of 3
RESOLUTION NO. 26-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE
CHAPTER 8.08 (DEFINITIONS), CHAPTER 8.30 (DOWNTOWN DUBLIN ZONING DISTRICT),
CHAPTER 8.76 (OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS), AND CHAPTER 8.116
(ZONING CLEARANCE), AND THE ADDITION OF CHAPTER 8.39 (FIREARMS RETAILERS AND
INDOOR SHOOTING RANGES)
(PLPA-004331-2026)
WHEREAS, the City occasionally initiates amendments to the Dublin Municipal Code to
clarify, add, or amend certain provisions to ensure that it remains current with federal and state
law, internally consistent, simple to understand and implement, and relevant to changes occurring
in the community; and
WHEREAS, the Dublin Municipal Code regulates firearms retailers as retail uses and
indoor shooting ranges as Recreational Facility/Indoor uses; and
WHEREAS, the City received an inquiry regarding a proposed firearms retailer and indoor
shooting range adjacent to a school, which raised questions regarding land use compatibility and
the need for objective zoning standards; and
WHEREAS, on January 20, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Interim Ordinance No.
01-26 establishing a temporary moratorium on the establishment, expansion, and relocation of
firearm-related businesses and indoor shooting ranges; and
WHEREAS, on March 3, 2026, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 02-26 extending the
moratorium through January 27, 2027, to allow the City to evaluate permanent regulations; and
WHEREAS, on September 1, 2026, the City Council received an informational report and
provided direction to staff to proceed with a focused land use approach; and
WHEREAS, the City has initiated amendments to Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.08
(Definitions), Chapter 8.30 (Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off -Street Parking
and Loading Regulations), and Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance). The proposed amendments also
include a new chapter, Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor
Shooting Ranges). The proposed amendments (the “Project”) would establish development
regulations and permitting requirements for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges; and
WHEREAS, the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), together with the State
Guidelines and City of Dublin CEQA Guidelines and Procedures require that certain proje cts be
reviewed for environmental impacts and that environmental documents be prepared; and
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Reso. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 2 of 3
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council find the Project
exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because
the Project imposes additional location and permitting restrictions on uses that are already
allowed and does not authorize any new development, and it can be seen with certainty that there
is no possibility that the Project would have a signi ficant effect on the environment and is not
subject to CEQA review; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on October 27,
2026, during which all interested persons were heard; and
WHEREAS, proper notice of said hearing was given in all respects as required by law; and
WHEREAS, a Staff Report dated October 27, 2026, was submitted to the Dublin Planning
Commission recommending approval of the proposed amendments to Dublin Municipal Code
Chapter 8.08 (Definitions), Chapter 8.30 (Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off-
Street Parking and Loading Regulations) and Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance), and the addition
of a new chapter, Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hear and consider all said reports,
recommendations and testimony set forth above and used its independent judgment to evaluate
the recommendations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the foregoing recitals are true and correct and
made a part of this Resolution.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission recommends that the City Council
find the Project consistent with the Dublin General Plan and all applicable Specific Plans because
the Project retains firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges as allowed uses in designated
commercial and industrial areas while establishing objective standards to address land use
compatibility and public health and safety, and the Project does not change any General Plan or
Specific Plan land use designation or the development intensity allowed on any property.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Dublin Planning Commission does hereby
recommend that the City Council adopt the Ordinance attached hereto as Exhibit A and
incorporated herein by reference.
{Signatures to follow on next page}
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Reso. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 3 of 3
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 27th day of October 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
Planning Commission Chair
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Planning Manager
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Attachment 2
Exhibit A to Resolution
Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 1 of 9
ORDINANCE NO. XX-26
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.08 (DEFINITIONS), CHAPTER
8.30 (DOWNTOWN DUBLIN ZONING DISTRICT), CHAPTER 8.76 (OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING
REGULATIONS), AND CHAPTER 8.116 (ZONING CLEARANCE), AND THE ADDITION OF CHAPTER 8.39
(FIREARMS RETAILERS AND INDOOR SHOOTING RANGES)
(PLPA-004331-2026)
The Dublin City Council does ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. RECITALS
A. The City occasionally initiates amendments to the Dublin Municipal Code to clarify, add, or amend
certain provisions to ensure that it remains current with federal and state law, internally
consistent, simple to understand and implement, and relevant to changes occurring in the
community.
B. The Dublin Municipal Code regulates firearms retailers as retail uses and indoor shooting ranges
as Recreational Facility/Indoor uses.
C. The City received an inquiry regarding a proposed firearms retailer and indoor shooting range
adjacent to a school, which raised questions regarding land use compatibility and the need for
objective zoning standards.
D. On January 20, 2026, the City Council adopted Urgency Interim Ordinance No. 01-26 establishing
a temporary moratorium on the establishment, expansion, and relocation of firearm -related
businesses and indoor shooting ranges.
E. On March 3, 2026, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 02-26 extending the moratorium
through January 27, 2027, to allow the City to evaluate permanent regulations.
F. On September 1, 2026, the City Council received an informational report and provided direction
to staff to proceed with a focused land use approach.
G. The City Council finds that firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges located near schools and
the other sensitive uses identified in Section 8.39.030 present the following land use compatibility
concerns: potential conflicts with the character and intended use of surrounding properties,
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 2 of 9
particularly educational, recreational, and other community -serving environments, and
community concerns regarding the proximity of firearm related businesses to locations
frequented by children and families.
H. The City's land use comparison analysis shows that approximately 758 acres, or approximately 67
percent, of the City's approximately 1,136 acres of commercial and industrial land lie outside the
separation areas established by this Ordinance, so that reasonable opp ortunities remain for
firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges to locate in the City.
I. This Ordinance regulates the location and permitting of firearms retailers and indoor shooting
ranges. It does not prohibit, and is not intended to prohibit, the sa le of firearms or ammunition or
the operation of indoor shooting ranges in the City.
J. The City initiated amendments to Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.08 (Definitions), Chapter 8.30
(Downtown Dublin Zoning District), Chapter 8.76 (Off-Street Parking and Loading Regulations) and
Chapter 8.116 (Zoning Clearance). The proposed amendments also include a new chapter, Dublin
Municipal Code Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges). The proposed
amendments (the “Project”) would establish development regulations and permitting
requirements for firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges.
K. The Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on October 27, 2026, during which all
interested persons were heard, and adopted Resolution No. ____ recommending that the City
Council approve the Project.
L. A Staff Report was submitted to the Dublin City Council recommending approval of the Project.
M. The City Council held a public hearing on _____, at which time all interested persons had an
opportunity to be heard.
N. Proper notice of said hearing was given in all respects as required by law.
O. The City Council did hear and consider all said reports, recommendations, and testimony set forth
above and used its independent judgment to evaluate the Project.
SECTION 2. FINDINGS
A. Pursuant to Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.120.050.B., the City Council hereby finds that the
Project is consistent with the General Plan and applicable Specific Plans bec ause the amendments
retain firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges as allowed uses in designated commercial and
industrial areas while establishing objective standards to address land use compatibility and public
health and safety. The amendments do not change any General Plan or Specific Plan land use
designation or the development intensity allowed on any property.
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 3 of 9
B. The California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), together with the State Guidelines and City of
Dublin CEQA Guidelines and Procedures, require that certain projects be reviewed for
environmental impacts and that environmental documents be prepared. The City Council finds that
the Project is exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section
15061(b)(3) because the Project imposes additional location and permitting restrictions on uses that
are already allowed and does not authorize any new development, and it can be seen with certainty
that there is no possibility that the Project would have a significant effect on the environment and
is not subject to CEQA review.
SECTION 3. AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 8.08
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.08.020 is amended to add the definitions of Firearms Retailer and
Indoor Shooting Range in alphabetical order and to amend the definition of Recreational Facility/Indoor
(use type), to read as follows:
Firearms Retailer. The term Firearms Retailer shall mean a retail establishment engaged in the
business of selling, leasing, or transferring firearms or ammunition, or offering firearms or
ammunition for sale or lease. As used in this definition, "firearm" has the meaning given in Penal Code
Section 16520, subdivision (a), and "ammunition" has the meaning given in Penal Code Section 16150,
subdivision (a). This definition includes a business that facilitates firearm transfers required by state
or federal law, regardless of whether the sale or transfer of firearms or ammunition is the primary or
accessory activity of the business.
Indoor Shooting Range. The term Indoor Shooting Range shall mean a completely enclosed facility
designed to offer a controlled firearm shooting environment for individuals wishing to practice,
improve upon, or compete as to their shooting skills.
Recreational Facility/Indoor (use type). The term Recreational Facility/Indoor shall mean
establishments providing amusement, entertainment, or physical fitness services typically occurring
indoors for a fee or admission charge, such as, but not limited to: arcades containing coin-operated
amusements and/or electronic games (five or more such games or coin-operated amusements in any
establishment constitutes an arcade pursuant to this definition, four or less are not co nsidered a land
use separate from the primary land use of the site); bowling alleys; laser tag businesses; ice skating
and roller skating; art/dance/exercise studio; drama/voice/instrument instructional studio; indoor
play center (rock climbing or inflatable party place); Health Club/Fitness Center; martial arts studios;
tennis; handball; badminton, racquetball; indoor archery range; indoor shooting range; indoor soccer
or hockey facilities; swimming pools; and other indoor sports activities determined to b e substantially
similar to the above by the Community Development Director. Recreational Facility/Indoor does not
include a dance floor.
SECTION 4. AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 8.30
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.30.020 is amended as follows:
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 4 of 9
The Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, adopted by the City Council on February 1, 2011, by Resolution
No. 9-11, and as may be amended thereafter, shall be used to guide the review of site development
review applications in the Downtown Dublin Zoning District. The Downtown Dublin Specific Plan
contains all information regarding permitted, conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses,
development standards, and design guidelines to direct the development and use of properties within
the specific plan area, with the exception of the tobacco retail use types, firearms retailers, and
indoor shooting ranges. Tobacco and firearms retailers are to be regulated in the same way as in the
C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts. Indoor shooting ranges are to be regulated in the same way as
Recreational Facility/Indoor. All new development in the Downtown Dublin Zoning District shall be
reviewed for consistency with the Downtown Dublin Specific Plan.
SECTION 5. ADDITION OF CHAPTER 8.39
Dublin Municipal Code Chapter 8.39 is added to read as follows:
Chapter 8.39
FIREARMS RETAILERS AND INDOOR SHOOTING RANGES
8.39.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish regulations for the location and operation of firearms
retailers and indoor shooting ranges.
8.39.020 Intent.
The intent of this Chapter is to ensure that firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges meet the
following objectives:
A. Establish a minimum distance that firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges must maintain
from schools, playgrounds, parks, libraries, youth centers, and City-owned and operated recreational
facilities.
B. Establish development standards and regulations for the siting of firearms retailers and indoor
shooting ranges within the City.
C. Allow for the safe and appropriate use of the building and/or space in which the firearms retailers
and indoor shooting ranges are located.
D. Comply with all Building and Fire Code regulations for the use and occupancy type.
E. Conform to all provisions of the zoning district in which they are located.
8.39.030 Development Standards and Regulations.
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 5 of 9
Firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges shall comply with all development standards and
regulations for the zoning district in which they are located, any other applicable provisions of the
Dublin Municipal Code or regulations, including occupancy, accessibility, California Building Code, and
Fire Code requirements, and the following standards and regulations:
A. Firearms retailers may be established only in the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts and comparable
Planned Development (PD) Zoning Districts if not specifically prohibited by the PD regulations and if
the project site has an underlying Retail Commercial or General Commercial land use designation , and
the Downtown Dublin Zoning District where Retail - General is permitted. Indoor shooting ranges are
considered a Recreational Facility/Indoor use type and are per mitted in the C-1, C-2, M-P, M-1, and
M-2 Zoning Districts, certain PD Zoning Districts that permit Recreational Facility/Indoor uses, and the
Downtown Dublin Zoning District where Recreational Facility/Indoor is permitted. A firearms retailer
may also be established as an accessory use to an indoor shooting range. A firearms retailer or indoor
shooting range located in a PD Zoning District shall be subject to this chapter.
B. No firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be located within one thousa nd (1,000) feet, as
measured in a straight line from parcel boundary to parcel boundary, of a parcel that, at the time the
firearms retailer or indoor shooting range is granted a Zoning Clearance, is occupied by a public or
private elementary, middle, junior high or high school.
C. No firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be located within five hundred (500) feet, as
measured in a straight line from parcel boundary to parcel boundary, of a parcel that, at the time the
firearms retailer or indoor shooting range is granted a Zoning Clearance, is occupied by a:
1. Playground;
2. Youth center;
3. City owned and City operated recreational facility;
4. Park; or
5. Library.
D. Indoor shooting ranges shall include impenetrable walls, floor, and ceiling with adequate
ventilation and lighting systems and acoustical treatment for sound attenuation suitable for the
shooting range’s approved use.
8.39.040 Permitting Procedure.
A. Zoning Clearance. A proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be approved
ministerially with a Zoning Clearance and without discretionary review or a public hearing if it meets
the following standards:
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 6 of 9
1. Meets all Development Standards and Regulations und er Section 8.39.030, and includes a
map demonstrating that the proposed location of the firearms retailer or indoor shooting range
is consistent with the minimum distance standards established in Subsections 8.39.030.B and
8.39.030.C.
2. Possession of all licenses and permits required by federal, state, and local law.
3. The hours of operation are no earlier than 6:00 a.m. and no later than 10:00 p.m.
4. Meets the parking requirement for the use type in accordance with the requirements of
Section 8.76.080 (Parking Requirements by Use Type) without any adjustments, reductions, or
variances.
5. The proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range qualifies for an exemption from
environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
A Zoning Clearance form shall document compliance with the above requirements and shall be kept on
file in the Community Development Department for the duration of the operation of the firearms
retailer or indoor shooting range. The requirements applicable to firearms retailers do not apply to
firearm sales or transfers conducted as a home occupation in compliance with Chapter 8.64.
B. Required Documentation for Indoor Shooting Ranges. In addition to the requirements in
Subsection A, an indoor shooting range shall be subject to the following:
1. A building permit, including documentation prepared by a qualified design professional
demonstrating that ventilation, filtration, and related environmental-control systems are
designed to comply with applicable federal and state occupational safety and environmental
requirements.
2. Documentation prior to final occupancy that the systems were installed and tested in
accordance with the approved design.
C. Minor Use Permit. A proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range that does not meet the
parking requirements for approval by Zoning Clearance under Subsection A of this section shall
require approval of a Minor Use Permit under Chapter 8.102 (Minor Use Permit). All other
requirements of this chapter apply to a project approved under this subsection.
8.39.050 Annual Review for Indoor Shooting Ranges. As part of annual business license renewal for
an indoor shooting range, the operator shall provide documentation demonstrating continued
compliance with applicable federal and state requirements governing operation of the range. The
annual compliance documentation shall be submitted a minimum of 30 days prior to the expiration
and annual renewal of the business license. The Building Official may prescribe the form of
documentation required and refer suspected violations to the agency having jurisdiction . Continued
compliance with Section 8.39.040 (B) is required to maintain a valid business license.
SECTION 6. AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 8.76
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 7 of 9
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.76.080.D is amended as follows:
COMMERCIAL USE TYPES NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES REQUIRED
Recreational Facility/Indoor
Indoor Shooting Range 1.5 parking spaces per firing lane, plus parking required
separately for each associated use
SECTION 7. AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 8.116
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.116.020 is amended as follows:
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. Firearms retailers or indoor shooting ranges that
meet the standards specified in Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges).
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.116.030 is amended as follows:
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. If the Zoning Clearance is for firearms retailers or
indoor shooting ranges, the Applicant shall submit a “Zoning Clearance for Firearms Retailers and
Indoor Shooting Ranges” form along with such information requested on said form.
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.116.040 is amended as follows:
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. All requests for firearms retailers or indoor
shooting ranges shall be reviewed for compliance with Ch apter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor
Shooting Ranges). The Zoning Clearance approval for firearms retailers or indoor shooting ranges shall
be a completed “Zoning Clearance for Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges” application
form and any pertinent attachments as required on the form with the date and signature of the
Community Development Director or designee.
Dublin Municipal Code Section 8.116.050 is amended as follows:
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. A Zoning Clearance issued for firearms retailers or
indoor shooting ranges shall expire when the approved use ceases operation at the approved
location.
SECTION 8. SEVERABILITY
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Ord inance is for any reason held
invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, that decision shall not affect the validity
of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council declares that it would have adopted this
Ordinance, and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of it, irrespective of the
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 8 of 9
fact that any one or more of them is declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 9. POSTING OF ORDINANCE
The City Clerk of the City of Dublin shall cause this Ordinance to be posted in at least three (3) public
places in the City of Dublin in accordance with Section 36933 of the Government Code of the State of
California.
SECTION 10. EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days following its adoption.
{Signatures to follow on next page}
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Ord. No. XX-26, Item X.X, Adopted XX/XX/2026 Page 9 of 9
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY the City Council of the City of Dublin, on this ___ day of __________
2026, by the following votes:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_____________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
City Clerk
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Attachment 3
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Chapter 8.08
DEFINITIONS
Chapter 8.08 Definitions (A-Z)
Firearms Retailer. The term Firearms Retailer shall mean a retail establishment engaged
in the business of selling, leasing, or transferring firearms or ammunition, or offering
firearms or ammunition for sale or lease. As used in this definition, "firearm" has the
meaning given in Penal Code Section 16520, subdivision (a), and "ammunition" has the
meaning given in Penal Code Section 16150, subdivision (a). This definition includes a
business that facilitates firearm transfers required by state or federal law, regardless of
whether the sale or transfer of firearms or ammunition is the primary or accessory
activity of the business.
Indoor Shooting Range. The term Indoor Shooting Range shall mean a completely
enclosed facility designed to offer a controlled firearm shooting environment for
individuals wishing to practice, improve upon, or compete as to their shooting skills.
Recreational Facility/Indoor (use type). The term Recreational Facility/Indoor shall
mean establishments providing amusement, entertainment, or physical fitness services
typically occurring indoors for a fee or admission charge, such as, but not limited to:
arcades containing coin-operated amusements and/or electronic games (five or more
such games or coin-operated amusements in any establishment constitutes an arcade
pursuant to this definition, four or less are not considered a land use separate from the
primary land use of the site); bowling alleys; laser tag businesses; ice skating and roller
skating; art/dance/exercise studio; drama/voice/instrument instructional studio; indoor
play center (rock climbing or inflatable party place); Health Club/Fitness Center; martial
arts studios; tennis; handball; badminton, racquetball; indoor archery range; and
shooting ranges indoor shooting range; indoor soccer or hockey facilities; swimming
pools; and other indoor sports activities determined to be substantially similar to the
above by the Community Development Director. Recreational Facility/Indoor does not
include a dance floor.
Chapter 8.30
DOWNTOWN DUBLIN ZONING DISTRICT
8.30.020 Downtown Dublin Specific Plan
The Downtown Dublin Specific Plan, adopted by the City Council on February 1, 2011, by
Resolution No. 9-11, and as may be amended thereafter, shall be used to guide the
review of site development review applications in the Downtown Dublin Zoning District.
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The Downtown Dublin Specific Plan contains all information regarding permitted,
conditionally permitted, and prohibited uses, development standards, and design
guidelines to direct the development and use of properties within the specific plan area,
with the exception of the tobacco retail use types, firearms retailers, and indoor
shooting ranges. Tobacco and firearms retailers are to be regulated in the same way as in
the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts. Indoor shooting ranges are to be regulated in the same
way as Recreational Facility/Indoor. All new development in the Downtown Dublin
Zoning District shall be reviewed for consistency with the Downtown Dublin Specific
Plan.
Chapter 8.39
FIREARMS RETAILERS AND INDOOR SHOOTING RANGES
8.39.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish regulations for the location and operation of
firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges.
8.39.020 Intent.
The intent of this Chapter is to ensure that firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges
meet the following objectives:
A. Establish a minimum distance that firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges must
maintain from schools, playgrounds, parks, libraries, youth centers and City-owned and
operated recreational facilities.
B. Establish development standards and regulations for the siting of firearms retailers
and indoor shooting ranges within the City.
C. Allow for the safe and appropriate use of the building and/or space in which the
firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges are located.
D. Comply with all Building and Fire Code regulations for the use and occupancy type.
E. Conform to all provisions of the zoning district in which they are located.
8.39.030 Development Standards and Regulations.
Firearms retailers and indoor shooting ranges shall comply with all development
standards and regulations for the zoning district in which they are located, any other
applicable provisions of the Dublin Municipal Code or regulations, including occupancy,
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accessibility, California Building Code, and Fire Code requirements, and the following
standards and regulations:
A. Firearms retailers may be established only in the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts and
comparable Planned Development (PD) Zoning Districts if not specifically prohibited by
the PD regulations and if the project site has an underlying Retail Commercial or General
Commercial land use designation, and the Downtown Dublin Zoning District where
Retail-General is permitted. Indoor shooting ranges are considered a Recreational
Facility/Indoor use type and are permitted in the C-1, C-2, M-P, M-1, and M-2 Zoning
Districts, certain PD Zoning Districts that permit Recreational Facility/Indoor uses, and
the Downtown Dublin Zoning District where Recreational Facility/Indoor is permitted. A
firearms retailer may also be established as an accessory use to an indoor shooting
range. A firearms retailer or indoor shooting range located in a PD Zoning District shall
be subject to this chapter.
B. No firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be located within one thousand
(1,000) feet, as measured in a straight line from parcel boundary to parcel boundary, of a
parcel that, at the time the firearms retailer or indoor shooting range is granted a Zoning
Clearance, is occupied by a public or private elementary, middle, junior high or high
school.
C. No firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be located within five hundred
(500) feet, as measured in a straight line from parcel boundary to parcel boundary, of a
parcel that, at the time the firearms retailer or indoor shooting range is granted a Zoning
Clearance, is occupied by a:
1. Playground;
2. Youth center;
3. City owned and City operated recreational facility;
4. Park; or
5. Library.
D. Indoor shooting ranges shall include impenetrable walls, floor, and ceiling with
adequate ventilation and lighting systems and acoustical treatment for sound
attenuation suitable for the shooting range’s approved use.
8.39.040 Permitting Procedure.
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A. Zoning Clearance. A proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range shall be
approved ministerially with a Zoning Clearance and without discretionary review or a
public hearing if it meets the following standards:
1. Meets all Development Standards and Regulations under Section 8.39.030, and
includes a map demonstrating that the proposed location of the firearms retailer
or indoor shooting range is consistent with the minimum distance standards
established in Subsections 8.39.030.B and 8.39.030.C.
2. Possession of all licenses and permits required by federal, state, and local law.
3. The hours of operation are no earlier than 6:00 a.m. and no later than 10:00
p.m.
4. Meets the parking requirement for the use type in accordance with the
requirements of Section 8.76.080 (Parking Requirements by Use Type) without any
adjustments, reductions, or variances.
5. The proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range qualifies for an
exemption for environmental review under the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA).
A Zoning Clearance form shall document compliance with the above requirements and
shall be kept on file in the Community Development Department for the duration of the
operation of the firearms retailer or indoor shooting range. The requirements applicable
to firearms retailers do not apply to firearm sales or transfers conducted as a home
occupation in compliance with Chapter 8.64.
B. Required Documentation for Indoor Shooting Ranges. In addition to the
requirements in Subsection A, an indoor shooting range shall be subject to the following:
1. A building permit, including documentation prepared by a qualified design
professional demonstrating that ventilation, filtration, and related environmental-
control systems are designed to comply with applicable federal and state
occupational safety and environmental requirements.
2. Documentation prior to final occupancy that the systems were installed and
tested in accordance with the approved design.
C. Minor Use Permit. A proposed firearms retailer or indoor shooting range that does
not meet the parking requirements for approval by Zoning Clearance under Subsection A
of this section shall require approval of a Minor Use Permit under Chapter 8.102 (Minor
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Use Permit). All other requirements of this chapter apply to a project approved under
this subsection.
8.39.050 Annual Review for Indoor Shooting Ranges. As part of annual business license
renewal for an indoor shooting range, the operator shall provide documentation
demonstrating continued compliance with applicable federal and state requirements
governing operation of the range. The annual compliance documentation shall be
submitted a minimum of 30 days prior to the expiration and annual renewal of the
business license. The Building Official may prescribe the form of documentation required
and refer suspected violations to the agency having jurisdiction. Continued compliance
with Section 8.39.040(B) is required to maintain a valid business license.
Chapter 8.76
OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS
Section 8.76.080 (Parking Requirements by Use Type)
D. Commercial Use Types. Commercial Use Types shall provide off-street parking spaces
as follows:
Recreational Facility/Indoor
Indoor Shooting Range 1.5 parking spaces per firing lane, plus
parking required separately for each
associated use
Chapter 8.116
ZONING CLEARANCE
8.116.020 Applications Requiring a Zoning Clearance.
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. Firearms retailers or indoor shooting
ranges that meet the standards specified in Chapter 8.39 (Firearms Retailers and Indoor
Shooting Ranges).
8.116.030 Application.
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. If the Zoning Clearance is for
firearms retailers or indoor shooting ranges, the Applicant shall submit a “Zoning
Clearance for Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges” form along with such
information requested on said form.
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8.116.040 Approval.
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. All requests for firearms retailers or
indoor shooting ranges shall be reviewed for compliance with Chapter 8.39 (Firearms
Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges). The Zoning Clearance approval for firearms
retailers or indoor shooting ranges shall be a completed “Zoning Clearance for Firearms
Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges” application form and any pertinent attachments
as required on the form with the date and signature of the Community Development
Director or designee.
8.116.050 Expiration of Zoning Clearance.
O. Firearms Retailers and Indoor Shooting Ranges. A Zoning Clearance issued for
firearms retailers or indoor shooting ranges shall expire when the approved use ceases
operation at the approved location.
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