Thursday, March 6, 2025 Update:
Over 100 concerned residents attended the hearing today, most to oppose a gun business in a neighborhood, and more than 300 residents sent emails voicing their opinion. While both sides were heard, the Hearing Officer punted on making a decision but said one will be made within 30 days. Stay tuned.
UPDATE: Thanks to our readers for letting us know the correct zoning application number is ZA-84-25!
A proposed firearm business at the corner of Central and Northview, right along the Murphy Bridal Path, has sparked strong opposition among residents in North Central Phoenix. The homeowner has applied for a use permit to operate a firearm business from his residence, a move that has raised concerns over safety, traffic, and the overall character of the neighborhood.
The homeowner holds a Type 7 Federal Firearms License (FFL), which allows him to manufacture and sell firearms, excluding destructive devices. Under this license, the business could legally produce and sell a variety of firearms, including:
- Handguns – Semi-automatic pistols and revolvers
- Rifles – Bolt-action, lever-action, and semi-automatic rifles such as AR-15s
- Shotguns – Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns
- Firearm Parts and Custom Builds – Lower receivers, barrels, and other components used to assemble firearms
While the license does not permit the sale of destructive devices (such as grenades or fully automatic machine guns without additional licensing), the ability to manufacture and distribute a wide range of firearms has raised concerns among residents.
Community Concerns
Local residents are mobilizing to prevent the approval of the permit, arguing that a firearm business has no place in a residential neighborhood. Concerns include:
- Safety Risks: The presence of firearms in a home-based business raises fears about theft, misuse, and potential criminal activity.
- Increased Traffic: A commercial enterprise of this nature would lead to an influx of visitors, deliveries, and potentially increased parking congestion.
- Zoning Precedent: Residents worry that approving this permit could pave the way for other home-based businesses that may not align with the community’s residential character.
The opposition group, who oppose a gun business in their neighborhood, has issued a call to action, urging residents to voice their concerns by emailing zoning officials and referencing application number ZA-84-25 before the scheduled hearing.
Upcoming Zoning Hearing
The City of Phoenix Zoning Adjustment Hearing is set for March 6, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Phoenix City Hall (Assembly Room C, 200 West Washington Street). Residents opposed to the permit are encouraged to attend and express their objections.
For more information, concerned individuals can contact Eric Morales from the Planning and Development Department at 602-262-7927 or email [email protected].
This hearing will be a critical moment in determining whether the proposed business will be allowed to operate in the North Central Phoenix neighborhood. The outcome could set a precedent for similar home-based firearm businesses in residential areas.
Keep up with more news in The Upper Middle.
