Burbank Law Bans Sale of Toy Replicas of Real Guns

The Burbank City Council on Tuesday voted to ban the sale of toy guns that resemble real weapons.

The law, approved by a 4-1 vote, makes Burbank the first city in the country to impose such a ban, effective in January.

City Atty. Douglas C. Holland said the law makes it a misdemeanor for a retailer in Burbank to sell toy guns that are “reasonable” replicas of actual guns--including air rifles and BB guns.

It also outlaws the brandishing of a toy gun in a threatening manner or in the presence of a police officer.

Offenders will face a six-month jail term, $500 fine or both, Holland said.

‘Constitutional Questions’

Councilman Robert R. Bowne cast the only dissenting vote. Bowne said the ordinance will prove difficult for police to enforce.

“I think this will involve the city in some expensive litigation,” Bowne said, “and it raises constitutional questions that have not been answered.”

The law will go into effect in January after retailers have a chance to deplete current supplies of toy guns.

Mayor Michael R. Hastings, who sponsored the ordinance, said the law is an attempt to head off recent incidents where toy guns have been brandished on freeways or used in crimes.