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PATROL UPDATE

Incident Response

By Sgt. Mark Wright

Safety Concerns over Violation of this statute
constitutes a second-degree
BB Gun in the Park misdemeanor, which can
carry penalties including
I up to 60 days in jail,
hope this message finds you well. Please find below
information in response to the NextDoor post from a
probation, and/or a
concerned community member who advised of an incident
that occurred on July 20, 2025, at Rio Vista Park, where a fine of up to $500.
It’s important to note
minor was reportedly observed carrying “an air rifle with a that this statute applies
scope by the barrel tip.”
regardless of whether
I want to begin by acknowledging and validating the resident's the device is loaded or
and surrounding community’s concerns. Any incident involving operational. The key factor is
a child in possession of a firearm-like object in a public possession and appearance
setting, particularly one as family-oriented as Rio Vista Park, in public.
understandably raises serious questions about safety, legality,
and potential consequences. The purpose of this response is to Fort Lauderdale Municipal Ordinances
address those concerns comprehensively, clarify the relevant In addition to state statutes, the City of Fort Lauderdale has
laws and municipal ordinances, and provide some guidance enacted municipal ordinance 16-52 that directly relates to
to prevent future misunderstandings or public safety issues. this incident:
Community Safety Implications • Sec. 16-52 – Discharge of Firearms or Weapons

Airsoft guns are commonly used in recreational contexts and Even if the minor was under adult supervision, this city
ordinance prohibits the discharge of any weapon, including
competitive sports; however, they pose a unique risk when air rifles, BB guns, or similar devices, within city limits.
carried in public areas, especially by minors. Their visual
similarity to real firearms makes it nearly impossible for While no discharge seemingly occurred during this incident,
bystanders—or even trained officers—to quickly distinguish the ordinance reinforces the city’s firm stance on keeping
them in high-stress situations. public spaces free from perceived or actual threats involving
In worst-case scenarios, failure to identify an airsoft gun weapon-like items. These ordinances and laws were
before reacting could lead to tragic consequences. As such, it established not only to preserve the tranquility and enjoyment
is strongly discouraged for any unsanctioned or unsupervised of public spaces, but also to prevent potentially tragic
transport or display of airsoft guns in public spaces. misunderstandings—especially in today’s climate where active
shooter threats are taken with utmost seriousness.
Relevant Florida State Law
The possession and use of airsoft and similar replica firearms Recommendations for
Parents and Guardians
by minors is regulated under Florida Statute § 790.22, which
states: To ensure the safety of all members of the Rio Vista community
and to comply with state and local regulations, the following
“The use for any purpose whatsoever of BB guns, air or actions are recommended:
gas-operated guns, or electric weapons or devices by any
minor under 16 is prohibited unless under the supervision 1. Supervised Use Only: Airsoft devices should only be used in
of an adult who is present and responsible.” controlled, private environments under the direct supervision of
a responsible adult and which comply with state law and
In short, it is unlawful for a person under 16 to use or possess municipal ordinances.
an airsoft rifle in public without immediate adult supervision.

24 rio vista civic association • www.riovistaonline.com

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