This is what i sent, an this is what i got back..
Sir, can you please be so kind, and pass this along too Mr. Steve Chamraz.
Applicability to County Parks/Land
As explained above, the Act permits a county to ban the carry of concealed weapons via posting in any buildings that are "owned, occupied or controlled" by the county. However, a state or local governmental unit generally may not prohibit a person with a concealed weapon from entering or remaining on the "grounds" of a publicly controlled building or on public land (including parks). The one possible exception is that the Act permits an entity (including a state or local governmental unit) to prohibit concealed weapons at a "special event." The Act creates trespassing liability for an individual who:
While carrying a firearm, enters or remains at a special event if the organizers of the special event have notified the actor not to enter or remain at the special event while carrying a firearm or with that firearm. This subdivision does not apply, if the firearm is in a vehicle driven or parked in the parking facility, to any part of the special event grounds or building used as a parking facility. Wis. Stat. § 943.13(1m)(c)(3).
Like the exceptions discussed above, a state or governmental entity would still need to post approved signs to prohibit firearms at a special event. The Act defines "special event" as "an event that is open to the public, is for a duration of not more than 3 weeks, and either has designated entrances to and from the event that are locked when the event is closed or requires an admission." Id. at § 943.13(1e)(h). While this definition of special event would appear to include functions like county fairs or related festivals where an admission is required, it would not cover free events (like concerts) that are given in parks or other outdoor spaces.
Thus, if there was a "special event" going on in a county park, a county could prohibit concealed weapons during that event by posting approved signs. Absent these special circumstances, however, there does not appear to be a basis to prohibit concealed weapons on county land.
Conclusion
While 2011 Wisconsin Act 35 has changed the rules regarding concealed weapons, counties retain the right to prohibit concealed weapons in all county-owned buildings, and can exercise this right by posting appropriate notices at all entrances. By complying with the procedural prerequisites in the Act, counties can take additional steps to ensure the safety and security of their public buildings.
NOTES:
Dear Mr. Malachowski,
Thank you for your note.
We have double-checked our facts and have confirmed our report on Oconomowoc law and the open carry of firearms in city parks is correct.
Both the city administrator and police chief confirm the following municipal code is in effect, and they believe, enforceable:
9.02(2)(a) -- "May not openly possess a firearm on any land located in City parks or within any public building owned by the City, which is similar to §§29.089(2) and 941.235, Wis. Stats."
We're talking to the police chief today, along with Nik Clark from Wisconsin Carry. You can see what we've uncovered about this story, tonight on "Live at 5:00" and "Live at 10:00".
