Key Changes in the 2025 Amendments

The 2025 amendments introduce two primary updates to Utah’s unlawful discharge laws:

1. Exemption for Farm Custom Slaughter Licensees
   Individuals with a farm custom slaughter license are now exempt from certain firearm discharge restrictions when acting in accordance with Subsection 4-32-108(3). This change supports farmers who need to use firearms for livestock management, ensuring they can operate without legal concerns under specific conditions.
2. Clarification for Official Duties
   The law now explicitly references exemptions for individuals performing official duties under 23A-2-207, 79-2-704, and Subsections 76-10-523(1)(a) through (f). This primarily applies to Division of Natural Resources law enforcement officers and POST-certified law enforcement officers dispatching animals, ensuring they can carry out their responsibilities without violating the statute.

Overview of Existing Unlawful Discharge Laws

To fully understand the amendments, let’s review the core components of Utah’s unlawful discharge laws as they stand:

Section 76-10-508: Unlawful Discharge of Firearms

This section outlines prohibitions on discharging a firearm in specific scenarios, including:

• From a vehicle (except at designated training ranges).
• Across or from a highway.
• At road signs, public utility equipment, or railroad facilities.
• Within certain Utah State Park areas.
• Within 600 feet of a building or structure housing domestic animals without written permission.

Violations are classified as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying penalties of up to 6 months in county jail. Prison time is not applicable.

Section 76-10-508.1: Felony Discharge of a Firearm

This section addresses more serious offenses, such as:

• Discharging a firearm toward individuals or habitable structures with intent to intimidate or harass.
• Discharging a firearm from a vehicle under specific circumstances.

Penalties range from third-degree to first-degree felonies, depending on the offense’s severity and consequences.

What Do These Changes Mean for Utah Residents?

The 2025 amendments provide targeted relief for farm custom slaughter licensees and law enforcement officers, ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of violating firearm discharge laws. However, the core prohibitions remain unchanged, meaning gun owners must still exercise caution to avoid misdemeanor or felony charges. Always verify local regulations, especially when discharging firearms near highways, state parks, or structures.

For a detailed look at the bill, visit the Utah Legislature’s official page.

Contact a Utah Firearms Attorney

Navigating Utah’s firearms laws can be complex. If you have questions about the updated unlawful discharge statutes or need legal assistance, contact Utah Firearms Attorney Jake Gunter at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation.