Changes to Municipal Authority to Restrict Bow Hunting
CHANGES TO MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY TO RESTRICT BOW HUNTING
2013 Wisconsin Act 71 alters municipal authority to regulate bow hunting as outlined in section 29.038, Wis. Stats. The Act does not modify the portion of the current statute that allows municipalities to prohibit hunting, fishing or trapping on property owned by the municipality. However, the Act outlines that municipalities may not otherwise enact ordinances preventing bow and arrow or crossbow hunting within the municipality, subject to two exceptions: (1) bow hunting may be prohibited within 100 yards of a private building, unless the property owner provides permission to the hunter; and (2) bow hunters may be required to discharge their arrows or bows toward the ground.
The amended statute was enacted December 12, 2013 and effective December 13, 2013.
If you would like additional information regarding these statutory changes and the impact on municipal ordinances, please contact your Stafford Rosenbaum attorney or an attorney on our Government Law Team.
