Oakland Tactical had leased 352 acres in Howell Township to develop outdoor shooting ranges, including a 1,000-yard range for self-defense and other lawful purposes. However, the township’s zoning rules confined the land to agricultural or residential uses, blocking the proposed development. The plaintiffs argued the ordinance forced residents to rely on distant and inconvenient ranges, but the Sixth Circuit found this unpersuasive, noting that the ordinance does not prohibit firearm training outright.
justices michigan gun range ban review : Broader Implications
While this decision leaves the Sixth Circuit’s ruling intact, it underscores ongoing tensions between local zoning laws and Second Amendment rights. Advocates fear restrictive zoning could erode rights to access and train with firearms, while opponents argue such regulations are necessary for public safety and land use planning.
Representation
Oakland Tactical and the plaintiffs were represented by David H. Thompson, Peter A. Patterson, and John D. Ohlendorf of Cooper & Kirk PLLC, along with Joseph G.S. Greenlee of Greenlee Law PLLC and Martha A. Dean of the Law Offices of Martha A. Dean LLC. Howell Township was represented by Christopher S. Patterson of Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC.
