Ohio Revised Code Section 9.68 broadly preempts municipal firearm regulation. Columbus ordinances on assault weapons, large-capacity magazines, and safe-storage rules have been repeatedly struck down or enjoined by Ohio courts.
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 9.68, the General Assembly occupies the field of firearm regulation, granting individuals statewide uniformity to lawfully own, possess, transport, and carry firearms. Columbus has attempted multiple local gun ordinances, including a 2022 magazine-capacity restriction and a safe-storage requirement, only to see them blocked by Franklin County and appellate courts citing 9.68. House Bill 228 strengthened the statute by allowing prevailing plaintiffs to recover attorney fees and damages. Columbus retains narrow authority to discharge restrictions in city limits under Columbus City Code Chapter 2323 and to bar firearms in specific municipal buildings consistent with state law. The City has filed constitutional challenges, but as of 2026 enforcement remains paused.
Columbus cannot enforce preempted gun ordinances; courts may award attorney fees and damages to plaintiffs challenging such rules under ORC 9.68(C). Local enforcement officers face injunctions if they cite violators.
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