Hunters Say Camp Ordinance Is Too Vague

COLUMBUS, Ga. (CN) - Georgia hunters have challenged a Marion County ordinance that prohibits target shooting in campgrounds after sunset, saying the regulation is unconstitutionally vague.

Passed in 2007, the ordinance covers everything from electrical and fencing requirements to cleanup procedures and target-shooting restrictions, and imposes up to $500 in fines and 60 days in prison for each violation.

The plaintiffs - the Georgia Outdoor Network and four individual hunters - took particular aim at the sport shooting regulations, which required outdoor camp operators to set up earth mounds at firing ranges and prohibiting "zeroing, sighting firearms or target practice after sunset."

Hunters say the ordinance is too vague and constitutes a government taking.

"The failure of the Ordinance to sufficiently define its terms does not preclude or avoid the possibility of arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement of its provisions, thereby violating the Due Process Clause of the 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution," the lawsuit claims.

Plaintiffs seek a permanent injunction against the law's enforcement. They are represented by Winkler & DuBose of Madison, Ga.

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