Firearms/Weapons Policy

Greer Housing Authority
Firearms and Weapons Policy - Lease Addendum
This Firearms and Weapons Policy Addendum is incorporated into and made part of the Dwelling Lease Agreement between the Greer Housing Authority (GHA) and the resident household. This policy is adopted to maintain a safe and peaceful living environment for all residents, staff, and visitors while respecting lawful firearm possession under federal and South Carolina law.

1. Purpose
   The Greer Housing Authority is committed to maintaining a safe residential community. This policy establishes rules regarding firearms and weapons on GHA property in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
   
   
2. Compliance with Federal, State, and Local Laws
   Residents, household members, and guests may possess firearms only if such possession complies with all applicable laws, including South Carolina firearm statutes and federal law. Nothing in this policy prohibits lawful firearm possession within a resident's dwelling unit as permitted by law.
   
   
3. Prohibited Conduct
   The following conduct involving firearms or weapons is strictly prohibited on Greer Housing Authority property:

• • • Discharging a firearm except in lawful self-defense
    • Brandishing or displaying a firearm in a threatening or intimidating manner
    • Using a firearm or weapon to threaten, harass, or intimidate any person
    • Reckless or unsafe handling of firearms or weapons
    • Possession or use of any firearm or weapon in violation of federal, state, or local law

Such conduct may constitute a serious lease violation and may result in enforcement actions including termination of tenancy.

Reference: 24 CFR §966.4(l)(5)

4. Common Areas and Public Spaces
   Firearms and other weapons must not be handled, displayed, or discharged in common areas of Greer Housing Authority property, including administrative offices, community rooms, hallways, stairwells, parking areas, playgrounds, and outdoor gathering spaces.
   
   
5. Criminal Activity
   Any criminal activity involving firearms or weapons that threatens the health, safety, or peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents, staff, or visitors may constitute grounds for lease termination.
   
   Reference: 24 CFR §966.4(f)(12)
   
   
6. Cooperation with Law Enforcement
   Greer Housing Authority cooperates fully with local law enforcement agencies regarding firearm-related incidents occurring on GHA property. Residents and guests must comply with lawful directives issued by law enforcement.
   
   
7. Safe Storage Recommendation
   To promote resident safety, Greer Housing Authority strongly encourages residents who possess firearms to store them securely. Recommended safety measures include:

• • Storing firearms in a locked container or gun safe
  • Using trigger locks or similar safety devices
  • Keeping firearms inaccessible to unauthorized persons, including minors.

8. Lease Enforcement
   Violation of this policy may result in enforcement actions including written warnings, lease enforcement actions, termination of tenancy, and referral to law enforcement where applicable. Reference: 24 CFR §966.4(l).
   
   
9. Applicability
   This policy applies to residents, household members, guests, and visitors on Greer Housing Authority property. Residents are responsible for the conduct of household members and guests.