Hunting in Indiana: 6 Things to Know About Urban Deer Hunting in Cities and Suburbs

Before going hunting in Indiana, it is a good idea to become familiar with the rules and regulations that govern this activity. These includes guidelines for urban deer hunting in the state. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources offers the Indiana Hunting and Trapping Guide which is available online or at local offices.

Here are a few things to know about urban deer hunting in Indiana.

1. Hunter Orange Requirements
All hunters must meet the hunter orange requirements when hunting in Indiana for deer during firearm season (Nov. 15-30), muzzleloader season (Dec. 6 – Jan. 4), and special antlerless firearm season (Dec. 26 – 21). This includes hunters who are using archery equipment. These season dates may be subject to change on a yearly basis, so always confirm season dates before hunting.

2. Legal Hunting Hours
The legal hunting hours start one-half hour before sunrise and end one-half hour after sunset for all deer seasons.

3. Urban Deer Zones
In addition to statewide bag limits, hunters are able to take advantage of harvesting deer within defined urban deer zones, known as deer reduction zones. IN.gov website provides information on specific urban deer zones which it updates regularly. A valid license is required.

4. Bag Limits
The bag limit for deer reduction zones is 10 deer, and only one of these may be a buck. A doe must harvested before taking a buck.

5. Urban Deer Zone Season
The urban deer zone season starts Sept. 15 and ends Jan. 31. Always make sure to confirm season dates before hunting to ensure that no changes to the season dates have been made.

6. Local Ordinances
Hunters must follow local ordinances regarding restriction of firearms. Where allowed, firearms may be used in urban zones from Nov. 14 to Jan. 31.

Related Stories:
Hunting in Tennessee: 3 Animals to Hunt in the Fall
Hunting in Virginia: 5 Animals to Hunt in the Summer