Each decade, the number of people recreating on DNR-managed land has increased. With more people than ever out enjoying their public lands, the number of conflicts between different user groups has also increased. While the vast majority of DNR-managed land is open to target shooting, other visitors and nearby residents sometimes report instances that they feel are unsafe. In response to public requests, DNR is looking at what options may exist for target shooting, just as we periodically do for other recreation activities.
DNR has a history of successfully managing recreation so that the agency still meets its primary trust objectives while allowing all user groups to enjoy these landscapes. DNR recreation staff have done this by learning about the landscapes and discussing with stakeholders where, and how, various types of recreation can best occur. Traditionally, target shooting has not been included in these discussions.
DNR staff has taken ideas generated by the public and researched what similar efforts have worked for other states and agencies. However, any approach will be tailored to each unique landscape. There is no defined timeline for this effort. The work associated with each landscape will move forward on individual timeframes.
Rules and RegulationsTarget shooting is permitted on DNR-managed lands where it can occur in compliance with the rules outlined in the Washington Administrative Code regarding target shooting.
(1) What is recreational target shooting? Recreational target shooting is the use of a firearm or bow and arrow on targets and the sighting in of rifles or other firearms on department-managed lands. The department regulates and enforces target shooting on department-managed lands.
(a) The department may restrict target shooting for the reasons set forth in WAC 332-52-100.(b) Persons shall not target shoot carelessly, recklessly, or without regard for the safety of any person, or in a manner that endangers, or is likely to endanger, any person, pet, livestock, wildlife or property.
(c) Persons shall not discharge tracer or incendiary ammunition or projectile devices on department-managed lands. For purposes of this subsection, "incendiary" means causing or designed to cause fires, such as certain substances or bombs. "Tracer ammunition" means a bullet, projectile, or shell that traces its own course in the air with a trail of smoke, chemical incandescence, or fire, so as to facilitate adjustment of the aim.
(2) Does recreational target shooting include hunting? No. This section does not apply to hunting activities, which are subject to the rules and regulations administered by the Washington state department of fish and wildlife.
(3) Where is target shooting permitted? (a) Persons may target shoot in: (i) Developed recreation facilities specifically designed for target shooting; or(ii) Areas with an unobstructed, earthen backstop capable of stopping all projectiles and debris in a safe manner.
