KbMan99. Thanks for taking the time to join the forums and to take interest in the SFAA. Allow me to clarify a few things. Sadly if a player is under the age of 18 he/she considered a minor in the eyes of the state. The state of Florida has specific laws regarding minors and airsoft replicas. For example, if you are stopped by the police with your replica and your parent is not around. Your parents are at risk for a misdemeanor charge. In other words, it is against the law for you to operate one without a adult present.
You can have 1 parent watching up to 5 minors. Meaning if your friend's parents want to take watch that week it wont be a problem. But due to state laws, we cannot bend them.
We are sorry to hear that you think this sucks, but this is to help keep the community organized and safe. Come on over to the BBQ this weekend to learn more. Bring your parents as well, they will get a chance to ask any questions they may have.
But I am sorry this is they way it NEEDS to be in order to be able to use this field. There are rules that are set forth not only by us, but by the county and our insurance company. Hope this helped clear it up.
To help clarify please take a moment to read this:
Definitions
Unlike some other states, Florida does not classify air guns (bb guns and air or gas-operated pellet guns) as firearms or as dangerous weapons. Instead, the state lumps these weapons in with other non-lethal weapons such as stun guns. Given this light classification, it is important to note that the state laws are not so lax for all non-combustion projectile weapons. "Slungshots" or "slingshots" are classified as dangerous weapons right along with brass knuckles and tear gas guns.
Minors
Under Florida law, it is illegal for any minor under the age of 16 to use an air gun (bbs or pellets) unless they are in direct supervision of an adult who is the child's parent or guardian, or if the supervising adult is acting with the permission of the child's parent or guardian. Any adult who allows a child 16 years or younger under their care to operate or possess any air gun without direct supervision is guilty of a second degree misdemeanor and may face fines, jail time or probation.
Sterile Areas
Under Florida law, no weapons--including air guns--are allowed in public buildings, polling places, bars, certain sporting events not relating to firearms, or in the "sterile areas" of airports. Any individual who willingly violates this law is guilty of a second degree misdemeanor and may face jail time, fines and/or probation.