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UCR Policies and Procedures

 

UCR Policies and Procedures

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Campus Policy Number 850-46

UC Riverside Natural Reserve Firearm Guidelines

Policy Owner: UCPD

Effective Date: 11/28/01

  1. Overview:

    2. This policy outlines requirements for the possession, storage and use of firearms at the Natural Reserve System (NRS) properties administered by the University of California at Riverside.

    Scope:

    A firearm is defined as any device, designed to be used as a weapon, from which is expelled through a barrel a projectile by the force of any explosion or other form of combustion. This includes rifles, shotguns and handguns.

    The NRS facilities administered by the University of California at Riverside include The Box Springs Reserve, Boyd Deep Canyon Research Center, Emerson Oaks Reserve, James San Jacinto Mountains Reserve, Motte Rimrock Reserve and the Sweeney Granite Mountains Desert Research Center.

    Objective:

    To provide guidance to NRS personnel and other persons granted permission by the Chancellor to possess and/or use firearms on NRS property in a safe and lawful manner.

  2. Background:

    3. The California Gun Free School Zone Act of 1995 was amended in 2000 to allow, under certain circumstances, Chancellors or their designees to grant written permission to an individual for lawful possession of a firearm on University property. The NRS properties are often located in remote areas, where circumstances are significantly different from a general campus. The Office of the President has issued guidelines to be used by the Chancellor or his designee in approval of requests to possess, store and use firearms. This policy supplements those guidelines for NRS properties under the jurisdiction of the University of California at Riverside.

  3. Policy:

    1. Delegation of Authority

      2. The Chief of Police of the University of California Police Department (UCPD), Riverside shall be the designated person to review requests and grant authorization for firearms possession, storage and use on NRS property.

    2. Application Process

      3. All persons requesting to possess, store or use firearms on NRS property shall submit the appropriate Firearms Authorization Form to the Chief of Police. Note that there are two forms - one for possession and storage and one for possession and discharge of a firearm. Both forms must be submitted if the applicant anticipates discharge of the firearm in the performance of his/her duties.

    3. Firearm Storage

      4. Prior to the approval of application(s), the applicant shall provide proof to the Chief of Police that the firearm storage facility is properly secure. The Chief of Police or his designee may inspect the facility to assure security. Firearms shall be stored unloaded in a locked cabinet that is not in an area accessible to the public. Ammunition shall be stored in a separate locked cabinet.

    4. Evidence of Firearm Safety Training

      5. Prior to the authorization to discharge a firearm on NRS property, the applicant shall show evidence of firearm safety training. This may be accomplished by:

      1. Completion of a State of California certified hunter safety course or other certified safety course that applies to the firearm(s) requested.

      2. Possession of a valid State of California Department of Fish and Game hunting license.

      3. Federal or State of California certification as an instructor in firearms or Hunter Safety.

      4. Completion of a safety course taught by a member of the UCPD Firearms Training Unit.

    5. Proficiency Requirements

      6. Prior to the authorization to discharge a firearm on NRS property, the applicant shall demonstrate proficiency with each firearm listed on the application to a member of the UCPD Firearms Training Unit. Proficiency shall be demonstrated by safe gun handling techniques, loading, unloading and live fire testing.

    6. Period of Authorization

      7. The period of authorization shall be decided on a case by case basis by the Chief of Police. Authorization may be cancelled at any time. Authorization may be extended at the discretion of the Chief of Police. Re-examination of facilities or proficiency may be required for extension of authorization.

  4. Procedures:

    1. Obtain copies of required forms from the office of the Chief of Police at the following address:

      2. Office of the Chief of Police

      NRS Firearms Authorization

      University of California Police Department

      3500 Canyon Crest Drive

      Riverside, CA 92521

    2. Return the completed form to the above address. Include copies of hunting licenses, hunter safety completion cards or other evidence of safety training as outlined in section 3D. If proof of safety training is unavailable, please request UCPD safety training by enclosing a request on a separate sheet of paper.

    3. Applicants will be contacted by a member of the UCPD Firearms Training Unit to arrange a proficiency demonstration or safety training if needed.

    4. Upon completion of the proficiency demonstration, the application will be reviewed by the Chief of Police and the applicant will be notified of approval or disapproval.

  5. References
    6. :

    California Penal Code, Title 2, Chapter 1, Section 12001

    California Penal Code, Title 15, Chapter 1, Section 626.9

    University of California Firearm Guidelines for the Natural Reserve System

    University of California Natural Reserve System Firearm Authorization Form - Possession and Storage Only

    University of California Natural Reserve System Firearm Authorization Form - Possession and Discharge

  6. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

    7. What if I get a new gun and want to add it to the authorization?

    You will have to fill out a new application. Both applications if you think that you might fire the gun on NRS property. You will still have to show proficiency with the new firearm before authorization is given.

    Why two forms?

    Some NRS staff members live on NRS property, but shoot in areas that are off property. These persons need only fill out the possession and storage form. Only those people who anticipate shooting on NRS property need to fill out both forms.

    Do I really need a locked cabinet for my firearms?

    Yes. Unfortunately, burglaries can occur in all locales, even remote locations. A gun lock can be removed at a later date by the thief who finds the gun in a drawer or closet. A steel gun safe is a good bet and can be purchased at local sporting goods stores for reasonable prices.

    What if I don't comply with this policy?

    There are administrative measures for personnel who do not comply with University policy. Additionally, there are criminal sanctions for possessing a firearm on University property without authorization. In California, possession of a firearm on University property is a felony.

  7. Feedback:

    8. Please send any questions or comments to:

    Office of the Chief of Police

    NRS Firearms Authorization

    University of California Police Department

    3500 Canyon Crest Drive

    Riverside, CA 92521

    (909) 787-5222

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