Shooting range requirements

[p26w]

Hello, I have a friend who is interested in building his own private shooting range. I've tried to look up what the requirements are on google but it doesn't really tell you anything. Does anyone know what the legal requirements are?

[CCrawford]

Short answer, it depends on variables. Indoor or outdoor? Local codes from building department, zoning, fire code, noise ordinances, discharging firearms in city limits, within 1/4 mile of occupied dwelling, etc. That's the legal type stuff. Then there is the actual range stuff, backstops, venting/HVAC, regular blood testing for lead, etc. Outdoor range out in rural area, no big deal, middle of the city with a one lane .30 cal rifle basement range, much harder to do legally or practically. There was a post maybe 5+ years ago where a wealthy guy put in a couple lane basement range during a remodel, but did not actually install any of the range stuff until after the final signoff of the permits. Pasted it off as a future bowling alley with exceptional HVAC and soundproofing or something like that.

Anyway, lots more details are needed to assist.

[Spyder]

I made a big pile of soft dirt outside in a spot where I can set up the chrono right outside the window that's above my shooting bench so I can test loads in winter without leaving the garage. That wasn't a requirement for me, but it's awful nice. My requirements when shopping for a home were that the range had to be long enough to at least work on 100 yard loads without having to talk more than 30 yards from the house to where I shot from. I don't mind if the targets in the rain and snow.

[AlmostHeaven]

The laws and ordinances vary so much between localities that I doubt anyone here could possibly give a comprehensive answer. I recommend asking the local city council or municipal equivalent, the same bureaucratic entity that would approve new additions to homes such as extensions and decks.

[splithoof]

[AlmostHeaven]

Indoor or outdoor? There are too many differences to suggest an adequate starting point. Also, the general area in which said shooting range is planned will of course dictate many aspects.
I have had the experience of running my very own private, outdoor ranges in the past, and hope to have another eventually.

Having the ability to run around like an idiot at a private range is also nice.

[splithoof]

Having the ability to run around like an idiot at a private range is also nice.

I hear ya there.
I am involved in the management aspect of a private club range, and despite the fact that membership is required to use the complex, there is still a small degree of idiot factor. The issue that I see most commonly is poor gun handling skills, and folks leaving spent cases all over the place. While free brass is great, the gun handling issue is my main concern. Usually this is easily solved with education. It would sure be nice if the basic skills of proper gun handling were taught in public schools, but I realize that in California that will likely never happen.
For private/club ranges, the ability to incorporate vehicles, night shooting, holster work, and a myriad of other activities that are generally prohibited at public ranges makes it worth the effort.

[Jimi Jah]

Does an outdoor range built in California require an environmental impact report?

Endless regulations, fees and state roadblocks makes this a daunting effort here.

[splithoof]

Does an outdoor range built in California require an environmental impact report?

Endless regulations, fees and state roadblocks makes this a daunting effort here.

[AlmostHeaven]

The original poster has not subsequently returned to the thread to answer any questions, so I suppose he no longer requires any more information? ?