Texas Government Code Section 229.001 broadly preempts municipal firearms regulation, leaving Austin with minimal authority. Austin cannot regulate ownership, transfer, transportation, or storage of firearms or ammunition by ordinance.
Under Texas Government Code Section 229.001, the State of Texas preempts nearly all local firearms regulation. Austin cannot adopt ordinances regulating firearms, ammunition, knives, air guns, or firearm components. Narrow exceptions exist for discharging firearms within city limits, regulating use at municipal facilities, and restricting carry at public meetings consistent with state law. Austin City Code Chapter 10-1 regulates discharge under those allowances. Senate Bill 19 further limits city contracts with companies that discriminate against firearm businesses. The Texas Attorney General can sue cities that exceed authority, with potential civil penalties up to twenty-five thousand dollars per violation, severely limiting Austin's local gun policy options.
Cities passing ordinances exceeding Section 229.001 authority face civil penalties up to $1,500 for first violations and $25,000 for subsequent violations enforceable by the Texas Attorney General.
Austin, TX
Texas House Bill 1927 allows most adults 21 and older to carry handguns concealed without a permit. Austin follows state rules; License to Carry under Texas ...
Austin, TX
Texas allows permitless open carry of handguns in shoulder or belt holsters for adults 21 and older. Austin cannot restrict open carry beyond state law excep...
See how Austin's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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