Under Missouri law, you do not automatically have permission to hunt on private property. Firearm season begins this weekend in Missouri. As hunters take to the woods, it is important to understand Missouri trespassing law. This is especially true because more than 93 percent of land is privately owned. This means very little deer hunting actually occurs on government ground. Most people hunt on private property.

How to Hunt on Private Property in Missouri

Section 578.520 RSMo., provides rules for when you can hunt on private property. The statute requires hunters to obtain “permission from the owner or lessee” of the land before  fishing, hunting, trapping or even retrieving an animal that has been shot and crossed the property line before falling. According to this statue, if you knowingly enter or remain on private property for the purpose of hunting, fishing, trapping or retrieving wildlife, you are in violation of the statue and are subject to the penalty of a Class B misdemeanor. Additionally, you may be required  to surrender and deliver any hunting license or permit issued by the Department of Conservation to hunt, fish or trap for at least one year from date of conviction.

As a result of the statute, it is clear that before you just ‘jump the fence’ to hunt on private property, you must identify the landowner and get permission to hunt, fish, or enter their land.

These statutory provisions help to protect everyone during the hunting season. The law ensures multiple hunters are not unknowingly hunting the same area or that private landowners can expect to safety use their own property without the concern of being surprised by an unknown hunter.

Reciprocity With Other States

Conservation charges don’t just deal with poaching or illegally possessing an animal. They may involve several different types of offenses related to hunting, fishing, boating, and recreational vehicles. Many of these charges carry with them low fines and/or a minimal amount of jail time. Additionally, a simple charge can jeopardize your hunting, fishing and trapping license prohibiting you from pursuing your passion or hobby for a year or more. These suspensions are not just for the state of Missouri. Section 252.247 RSMo., allows Missouri to enter into a reciprocity compact with other states. Currently, 45 states are members of this compact. Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Nebraska and New Jersey are the only remaining states that are not members.

We Can Help

For this reason, although wildlife and conservation  charges are typically minor, in some instances they carry serious penalties. You need an experienced attorney to defend your rights when facing a conservation based offense. At Kennedy, Kennedy, Robbins & Yarbro, LC, you are getting the assistance of experienced attorneys on your side. We know how to protect your rights when faced with these types of charges and the hurdles they present.

Deer season also means that there may be deer on the road. Please be careful when driving and avoid harm from running into a deer on the road. 

Whether you have criminal charges or have been hurt in an accident, we’re here for you when you need us. Contact us or call us at (573)686-2459.