Can You Shoot on Your Property in Delaware?

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Are you a gun enthusiast living in Delaware? Well, the USSCA website reports that this small but mighty state with a population of approximately 983,000 people boasts of having over 21,000 licenses issued.

If you don’t have access to a gun range within your local neighbourhood, then perhaps you might be wondering whether it is possible for you to shoot on your private property. It is important for gun owners in the state to have a good grasp of the existing gun laws in Delaware so that they can understand the answer to this question.

Can You Shoot on Your Property in Delaware?

Yes, you can shoot on your property in Delaware as long as the property is not located within the borders of any city or town. Furthermore, it should not be located within at least 300 yards of any road or public pass-way in Delaware.

top shot of a black pistol

Safety Guidelines

The Delaware Code Title 28 clearly outlines the specific regulations which apply to those who would like to shoot on their private property in the state.

As a gun owner:

  • It is important for you to not only know the basic firearm safety but also understand the potential safety threats that exist when one is shooting on their private property.
  • This includes the escaping of stray bullets and debris as well as fire incidents which can easily occur if the proper safety precautions are not taken. For this reason, it is extremely important for gun owners to make sure that they adhere to the relevant guidelines so as to safeguard their own wellbeing and that of the surrounding community.
pistol and gun carrier

Inform the Right People

Target shooting can be a very noisy affair. If you fail to inform your neighbors beforehand concerning your plans to do target shooting on your property, then the noise from the firearms can lead to unnecessary panic and concern.

For this reason, is advisable that you should inform your neighbors in the community where you live as well as the local law enforcement so that they can be aware of the situation beforehand.

Licensing and Permits

Concealed Carry describes that Delaware is a may-issue state whereby concealed carry licenses are issued by the prothonotary office at the county level. Open carry is legal in the state for anyone who is above 18 years of age and can legally possess a handgun.

Delaware does not have any magazine capacity restrictions for handguns and neither do the state laws have ammunition restrictions. However, if you live in the City of Wilmington, then the local ordinances strictly prohibit armor-piercing types of ammunition.

shadow of a gun pointed at a scared person

Castle Doctrine in Delaware

The Castle Doctrine law in Delaware tackles a different aspect of firearm use on private property. Most gun enthusiasts would desire to shoot on their property as a way of enjoying target practice.

However, what happens if an intruder breaks into your home and they are posing a serious threat to you, your loved ones, home and property? In such a scenario, the Castle Doctrine Law gives citizens in their homes the right to protect themselves, their property, or other persons by use of force.

Conclusion

The topic of gun laws and gun control is a sensitive issue that has continued to dominate headlines for various reasons. If you are a gun owner living or working in Delaware, then it is important for you to stay informed on the latest news concerning gun laws in your state.

There are various conditions which need to be met before one is allowed to shoot at their private property in Delaware. Once the local authorities have given you the green light, then you will be able to enjoy a fun target shooting session right in the comfort of your private property.

James Forrester is a lifelong gun and firearms owner, and an even bigger advocate for gun safety. He created KeepGunsSafe.com with the purpose of sharing helpful tips and educating others on how to keep guns and weapons safe and secure.