With many of Georgia’s hunting seasons just weeks from their respective opening days, Bulloch County’s Probate Court has fielded a slight influx of calls concerning the acquisition of weapon-carrying permits.
    The inquiries are expected — they have become routine in the fall with deer season nearing — but unnecessary, according to Deputy Probate Clerk Brenda Hendrix.
    The use of long guns, which are most often associated with hunting, does not require a carrying permit, she said.
    And hunting and fishing licenses, obtained from Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources, do allow for the possession and use of a handgun, so long as it is used only while participating in hunting or fishing-related activities.
    “It is a common misconception,” said Hendrix. “But a permit is not required.”
    “Anyone with a valid hunting or fishing license that is in the process of hunting or fishing can have a handgun in their possession,” said Probate Court Judge Lee Deloach. “Though, they may only carry the firearm while engaged in that activity.”
    That is good news for eager Bulloch hunters, since the almost two-month waiting period to receive licenses could cut into their time in the woods.
    Applicants usually receive gun-permits approximately six to eight weeks after applying, said Hendrix. Complications with processing fingerprints could result in slightly longer wait-times, she said.
    Though hunters have no reason to apply for a permit, the courthouse welcomes a steady stream of hopeful applicants throughout the year, according to Deloach.
    Almost 400 people have taken the steps to become a legal carrier thus far in 2011. The total permits issued are down from recent years, when residents unsure of what impact the Obama administration would have on gun laws, created a spike.
    After issuing 345 permits in 2007, the court handed out 770 in 2008, 702 in 2009, and 610 last year. 
    Those looking to garner the certification are required to pay a $75 fee, turn in a 16-question application, and submit to fingerprinting and a background check — the same must be done when renewing the 5-year license.
    According to Hendrix, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Department each conduct checks before approving an applicant.
    The process is simple and encouraged for all gun owners, said Deloach.
    “Without a license you can own and possess a firearm — whether in your house, automobile or place of business. The trick is, getting it from one location to another,” he said. “You have to have a license to carry the gun. I recommend, if someone is going to own a firearm, they should go through the process and get a license to carry it.”
    With a permit, individuals may carry a firearm in public — though not to a public gathering — on their person. The gun may be in a holster, concealed by clothes or in carrying bag.
    Those applying for a license must be at least 21 years old, a resident of the county in which they are applying and in possession of a valid driver’s license, passport or permanent resident card.
    The state identifies several prohibitions — discovered via the application and background checks — that prevent an individual from being eligible for a permit.
    Persons convicted of a felony, multiple drug offenses, or domestic violence are barred from receiving a permit; individuals with a history of mental illness and anyone with a protective order issued against them are also restricted.
    Individuals interested in applying for a permit or learning additional information can contact the Bulloch County Probate Court by calling (912) 489-8749.
   
    Jeff Harrison can be reached at 912-489-9454.