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Fairfax City enacts ordinance restricting firearms at city-permitted events; effective Jan. 1, 2026
Summary
The City Council amended and adopted an ordinance expanding the list of places where firearms are prohibited to include city-permitted public events and adjacent rights of way. Council amended the draft to set an effective date of Jan. 1, 2026, and voted unanimously. Council members also asked staff for follow-up on enforcement, city-hall grounds,
The Fairfax City Council on Oct. 28 adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 54 of the City Code to prohibit the possession, carrying or transportation of firearms, ammunition and components at certain city-owned buildings, facilities, public property and at city-permitted events and their immediate rights of way.
City staff explained the ordinance updates would align city code more closely with Fairfax County provisions and provide clearer coverage for city-permitted events and adjacent sidewalks and rights of way. The draft raised penalties (reclassifying violations) and clarified existing provisions for parks and other public places. Council discussed whether to exempt concealed-pistol permit (CCP) holders; the council declined to add an exemption.
Councilmember Hall moved to enact the ordinance and later successfully proposed an amendment setting the ordinance's effective date to Jan. 1, 2026 to allow time for signage and implementation. The amended motion passed unanimously by roll-call. Councilmembers asked staff and the police department for additional follow-up work, including steps to bolster data collection and reporting on firearms-related incidents, options for assisting concealed-carry permit holders with secure vehicle storage and an exploration of whether the grounds of City Hall could (or should) be designated so the prohibition covers that campus.
Ending
The ordinance takes effect Jan. 1, 2026. Staff will return with implementation recommendations requested by Council, including signage and enforcement plans and follow-up options for City Hall grounds.
