Hunting in Rhode Island: 4 Things for Landowners to Know About Hunting on Private Property

Hunting on private property in Rhode Island can benefit hunters and landowners, if both groups abide by all state hunting laws. These arrangements allow hunters access to additional hunting grounds, and landowners can use their activities to control wildlife populations and supplement their income. With this comes responsibility for landowners, however, so before you decide to open up your land for hunting, consider the requirements and the resources you’ll need to oversee your property and everyone who uses it.

Here are four things to know before granting access to private land for hunting in Rhode Island.

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1. Hunters need permission to enter and hunt on private property.
According to the Rhode Island Hunting and Trapping Regulation Guide, hunters must obtain the landowner's authorization before hunting deer on their property. In some cities and towns, hunters must have permission to hunt any animal on private land and must also have permission from the local police chief. While it’s not required by the state, the Department of Environmental Management asks hunters to obtain permission before conducting any hunting activities on private land. However, if landowners want to restrict all access, they must post no trespassing signs.

2. Landowners can require hunters to pay to hunt on their land.
Some landowners use short- or long-term lease agreements to control access, according to the Department of Environmental Management. Landowners may charge a specific amount per day or ask hunters to sign an agreement for the entire hunting season.

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3. Landowners must abide by state regulations.
Even though they own the land, landowners must adhere to Rhode Island’s hunting laws. For example, the state determines which animals can be hunted in which seasons and how many of each animal hunters can bag per day. Landowners must also require hunters to have a current Rhode Island hunting license to hunt on your property.

4. Landowners must consider liability issues.
Landowners are responsible for maintaining their property and warning hunters if there are potential hazards. However, landowners can specify in lease agreements that they’re not liable for visitor safety and that hunters must purchase their own liability insurance. The DEM warned, though, that monitoring and maintaining large tracts of land and numerous guests can require significant resources.

This article is for information only. Please check current regulations before hunting.

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