Henderson, KY asked in Land Use & Zoning, Employment Law and Real Estate Law for Kentucky

Q: Can a church hold concealed weapon classes close to children?

I live two feet from a small congregational church in Corydon, KY. The owner of the church is conducting concealed weapon classes in addition to church services. I am concerned because these classes are held very close to where children reside, and there are certain zoning codes that must be adhered to, such as obtaining permits for property use. Furthermore, there is a connection to a known drug dealer in the area involved with providing pot to minors, which increases my concern about these classes. Can someone legally conduct such classes in this context?

2 Lawyer Answers

A: Yes. They can as long as they are in compliance with all federal, state and local laws and regulations concerning the various activities.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: In general, churches can offer a variety of services and activities, including concealed weapon classes, as long as they comply with local zoning laws and safety regulations. The fact that the church is located so close to residences and children may raise concerns, especially if the activities could be disruptive or unsafe. Zoning codes often regulate how properties are used, and certain activities may require permits or approval, particularly if they aren't consistent with the church’s primary religious function.

If the church is operating in violation of local zoning ordinances, you might have grounds to file a complaint with the local government or zoning board. You could inquire about whether the church has the necessary permits to conduct such classes, especially if the space is being used for commercial purposes that aren't aligned with its religious use. Local authorities can help clarify whether the church is in compliance with these rules.

The connection to a known drug dealer in the area is also concerning. If you believe illegal activities are occurring, you should contact local law enforcement. They can investigate whether there’s any criminal behavior tied to the classes or the individuals involved, which could further impact the legality of these activities.

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.