Detroit Michigan CCW/CPL Training Classes

Site Navigation: Home >> Articles >> Michigan Pistol Free Zones

| | | | | | | | | | |

CCW/CPL Class Notification E-List

CCW/CPL Class Student Testimonials

The Following Are On File In Our Office:

"Rick, Sorry that it has taken me so long to thank you. Although the class alone can't protect me or my family from danger, it has improved our ability to defend ourselves. The techniques and information that we covered in the class have taught me to be more aware and prepared period. I am more confident and comfortable when I leave home, knowing that I'm better prepared to address potentially dangerous confrontational situations. Once again thank you and I look forward to Session II (Personal Protection Outside The Home Course)."
- Mr. A. L. Odell III, Auto Industry Employee, Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48075

"Hello Rick. Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Just to let you know, I've got my CCW license and I bought a 9mm S+W (M&P) semi-automatic. I had intentions of getting a revolver, but after seeing and shooting your semi-automatic, I changed my mind. As for your class, I found that you were not only knowledgeable but you were also enthusiastic. What really impressed me was the fact that when we went to the gun range, I was a little short on money, you were kind enough to let me use your gun. This is what convinced me to buy a 9mm. I appreciate your help and I would (and do) recommend your class to anyone wanting to get their permit. Thank you."
- Mr. C. W. Miller, Retiree, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48219

"Rick Ector's firearm safety class provides a comprehensive introduction to the possession and use of firearms for personal defense. The knowledge gained in this class is invaluable to both novices and experienced firearm owners. Mr. Ector's sincere presentation of the materials is insightful and serves as a reminder of the care and safety which must be exercised when using firearms. The course is taught in a comfortable environment which is not intimidating to the first-time gun user. Any gun owner can benefit from taking this course."
- Mr. J. Boyer, Attorney At Law, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48207

"As an attorney and just as a regular citizen of Michigan, I cannot say enough good things about Rick's Firearm Academy. Rick Ector and his other instructors provided excellent training and instruction and managed to make a normally dry subject interesting and entertaining. They were patient, knowledgeable, skilled, and talented in communicating important information about gun safety, personal protection, and security. I learned a lot from Rick Ector and his staff. The info is extremely useful to my every day life, as I try to protect myself. I was so impressed with Rick and his staff that I intend to take more courses from Rick's Firearm Academy. I am very lucky to have learned about Rick's Firearm Academy, which should be a must for all Michigan residents. Rick Ector and his staff know their stuff and turned a day of training and instruction on rules - regarding firearm safety and concealed pistol licenses - into an interesting experience that benefited me and my safety. I will take the valuable information they imparted to me into my everyday life as I try to make myself more secure from crime and threats. Well, worth the money. In fact, it's a bargain."
- Ms. D. Schlussel, Attorney-At-Law, Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48034

"Hello Rick, I just wanted to inform you how insightful your CPL class was. Not only did you and Damian educate me better on the usage of a firearm but you also helped me with being aware of my surroundings and how I am approached by strangers as well. I am in the sales and marketing profession for an aluminum manufacturer. I am often in rural and industrial areas and I am much more comfortable after taking your class. I now have better firearm knowledge, know the difference of taking cover, and have knowledge of when it is illegal to shoot when you have been victimized. I have recommended your class to most of my friends who have an interest; some have handled firearms, but they will find that they too need to take your class. I have every intention to stay in contact for additional training and updates. Thanks again. Regards,"
- Mr. M. Jackson, Sales and Marketing Executive, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48206

Michigan Pistol Free Zones

Individuals with state of Michigan issued Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs) and people with CPLs from other states that have reciprocity with Michigan are authorized to carry concealed pistols on or about their person in our state. However, the law - Public Act 381 of 2000 - specifies certain places (i.e. Pistol Free Zones) where a pistol can not be possessed unless the person has an unrestricted CPL.

Most individuals applying for a Michigan Concealed Pistol License will NOT be issued an unrestricted permit. By statute, only the following classes of persons are eligible for an unrestricted license:

State of Michigan Licensed Private Investigators
Retired Law Enforcement Officers
County Sheriff's Corrections Officers
State Police Motor Carrier Officers
State Police Capitol Security Officers
Sheriff's Posse Members
Police Reserve Officers
Parole and Probation Officers

Furthermore, it should be noted that owners of Pistol-Free Zones and their specified employees, who provide security services, can carry concealed pistols on those premises if they have CPLs.

State of Michigan Pistol-Free Zones

1. Bars
The Michigan statute very clumsily defines a bar as a place where the primary source of income of the business is the sale of alcoholic liquor by the glass and consumed on the premises.

Obviously, patrons of a particular venue, that serves alcoholic beverages, would not know how much of that business' revenue is generated by the sale of liquor by the glass. However, the general rule is that a CPL holder can carry in a "real" restaurant that also serves alcohol but not in a bar that also serves food.

As an illustration, it is generally considered OK to carry in places like in the following list: Chili's, Fridays, Ruby Tuesday, and the Olive Garden.

2. Large Entertainment Facilities
The statute, once again clumsily tries to define a Pistol-Free Zone. In this case, a facility with a seating capacity of 2,500 or more individuals that the individual knows or should know has a seating capacity of 2,500 or more.

Confusion can be an issue with a CPL holder as to whether "he should know" how many seats are in a particular entertainment venue. In large venues like the Fox Theatre or the Music Hall, most people "could reasonably" know that there are at least 2,500 seats in the building.

In other cases, a sign above the entrances stating the exact seating capacity could also provide definitive info. However, what about smaller venues that don't have a sign posted? What about movie theatres? Is it the total number of seats in the entire complex or just in theatre where you are going to watch a movie? The statute is not clear.

3. Religious Facilities
The statute defines this Pistol-Free Zone as any property or facility owned or operated by a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, or other place of worship. One source of confusion that could exist with this provision is that it is not totally clear if it includes businesses such as church-owned apartment buildings, car washes, and retail shops.

Also, note that it is okay to carry a concealed pistol on church property if you have permission from the presiding official of the respective religious institution. I recommend that you get permission in writing and keep the note in your purse or wallet.

4. Hospitals
Everyone knows what a hospital looks like and should not have any problems with unknowingly carrying a handgun into a Pistol-Free Zone here. How about a doctor's office or a local clinic? It's open to interpretation. What do you think?

5. Casinos
I think that everyone can agree as to what constitutes a casino. We have several in the area: MotorCity, Greektown, and the MGM.

6. University Dormitories and Classrooms
The statute does not mention any other areas on campus as Pistol-Free Zones. Thus, one can assume that the campus grounds are "fair game." Also, keep in mind that a university's policies, as to whether students can carry at school, do not affect non-students.

7. Sports Arenas and Stadiums
We have several stadiums and arenas in the local area: Joe Louis Arena, Cobo Hall, Ford Field, The Palace of Auburn Hills, and etc.

8. Child-Care Facilities
The statute defines this Pistol-Free Zone as a public or private child care center or day care center, public or private child caring institution, or public or private child placing agency.

9. Schools and School Property
The statute expressly allows parents and legal guardians of students at a specific school to be armed while dropping off and picking up their kids, as long as the parent of legal guardian does not exit his vehicle.

A Couple Observations
One point to keep in mind with all of the above statutorily defined Pistol-Free Zones is that the parking lots of those facilities are exempt. Thus, if you are carrying a pistol while driving to a Pistol-Free Zone, it is perfectly legal to leave your handgun in your car. Preferably, you will have already bought a car-safe just for that express purpose.

Another point to ponder is the fact that there are some gray areas in the law. If you are in doubt as to whether you are in a Pistol-Free Zone, you may want to err on the side of caution and leave your handgun in your car.

Return to our Articles & Essays Page