safety
Smyrna overturns its ban on firearms in town parks
By Li Cohen, Danica Sauter at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 15, 2026
· 2 min read
SMYRNA, Tenn. (WSMV) - UPDATE: The city voted to update its city code to match state gun laws. This means guns will not be banned in the town’s parks anymore.However, there are still regulations against firing guns near schools. According to the town, people cannot fire them within 500 feet of a ...
Key takeaway According to the town, people cannot fire them within 500 feet of a school.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The decision by Smyrna to update its city code to match state gun laws will have a direct impact on the daily lives of residents who frequent the town's parks. With the ban on firearms in town parks lifted, individuals with valid handgun carry permits will now be able to possess firearms in these areas. However, the town's move to maintain regulations against firing guns near schools, with a 500-foot buffer zone, suggests a continued emphasis on public safety. This update also raises questions about how the town will balance the rights of gun owners with the need to ensure park safety, particularly in areas where children and families congregate. As Smyrna adjusts its rules to align with state law, residents will be watching to see how the town enforces these new regulations and maintains a safe environment for all park users.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? SMYRNA, Tenn. (WSMV) - UPDATE: The city voted to update its city code to match state gun laws. This means guns will not be banned in the town’s parks anymore.However, there are still regulations against firing guns near schools. According to the town, people cannot fire them within 500 feet of a ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Li Cohen, Danica Sauter at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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