Los Gatos Approves New Restrictions For Gun Shops

LOS GATOS (KCBS) — The town council of Los Gatos approved new regulations on Wednesday for firearms retailers including severe limits on where they can operate.

The new rules allow for gun shops in the town—but only in specific areas. They must be at least 250 feet away from schools, youth-oriented businesses, day care centers, government buildings, churches, parks and trails.

The push for new regulations started last December after Templar Sports—a firearms dealer—opened just days after the elementary school massacre in Newtown, Conn. Many residents were not aware, and were surprised when the store opened.

Los Gatos resident, Julia Maya said, however, that Templar Sports, is in clear violation of the new rules.

"They knew that they were moving in across the street from a ballet studio where children are taught."

Templar Sports' owner is being given four years to either discontinue gun sales or relocate to an approved location.

Another resident David Burt told the council that the town could face a costly legal battle with gun rights groups.

"It will be deep, it will be long and I really don't think it's a fight that we want to take on or a fight that can be won," he said.

The new ordinance also requires that stores selling guns get an annual permit.

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