Novi City Council bans use of bows and arrows outside licensed ranges

Novi, Michigan (WXYZ) - Take down your backyard archery targets in Novi.

Novi City Council is updating its weapons ordinance, and bows and arrows are caught in the crosshairs.

Council voted Monday night to not only maintain a ban on shooting firearms in the city, but to add a ban on using bows and arrows unless in a licensed range.

Deputy Police Chief Gerrod Hart says council made the decision in response to complaints about hunting in the city.

“We wanted to look at the safety and security of our residents here in Novi,” said Hart.  “This was a step in the right direction for us. “

The change in the ordinance makes it impossible to legally hunt in Novi.  It updates an ordinance created more than 30 years ago when the city was not as densely populated.

At Gander Mountain in Novi, customers weren’t happy to hear about a ban on backyard archery practice.

“If someone is careful enough, they shouldn’t have to go to a range just to shoot an arrow,” said Abdullah Saady.

Gander Mountain Store Manager Russ Becker says it is possible to safely practice the sport of archery in a community like Novi if someone has enough property.

“The arrow loses its energy after it gets out about 50 yards,” said Becker.

He says he understands the concerns of city leaders, and says those who want to enjoy the sport of archery are welcome to do so at Gander Mountain.  He expects the ordinance will mean an increase in business as the store has the city’s only indoor archery range.

The ordinance goes into effect on October 9.