Texas Government Code section 229.001 preempts city firearm rules statewide, leaving Dallas with almost no authority to regulate ownership, sale, transport, or carry. Dallas keeps narrow powers over discharge, city facilities, and zoning of firearm businesses.
Under Texas Government Code chapter 229, the Legislature reserves firearm regulation to the state. Dallas may not require permits for sale, transfer, possession, or carry; cannot regulate ammunition; and cannot impose taxes or registration. Section 229.001(b) preserves narrow city authority over discharge of firearms inside the corporate limits, sport-shooting ranges, public-employee carry on the job, and zoning provided the rule is not used to exclude licensed dealers. Dallas City Code section 31-25 bans discharge except at permitted ranges or in lawful defense. The Texas Attorney General actively enforces preemption and can sue cities under chapter 2160 for noncompliant rules. Dallas has stayed within these boundaries.
Discharging a firearm in Dallas city limits violates City Code 31-25 and Texas Penal Code 42.12, a Class A or B misdemeanor with fines up to four thousand dollars and possible jail time depending on circumstances.
Dallas, TX
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See how Dallas's local firearms preemption rules stack up against other locations.
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