Hunting in Virginia: 4 Things to Know About Hunting on Private Lands

A majority Virginia's property, 66 percent, is in the hands of private ownership. With that in mind, it is no wonder hunters seek permission to hunt on private lands. But hunting on private lands comes with a different set of rules, in addition to current state hunting regulations, according to the Virginia Department of Forestry.

Here are four things hunters should keep mind when hunting on private lands.

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1. Trespassing
Trespassing can be prosecuted, even if you are retrieving a hunting dog from private property. As a hunter you should be aware of your boundaries and pay attention to posted signs on property. Failure to do so may lead to a hefty fine or even incarceration.

2. Permission
Hunters are required to get written permission from the landowner before hunting on private property. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries offers a card that can be downloaded and filled out by both parties for this purpose. Property owners can specify what and when hunters can be on the property.

Documents granting permission must include certain language. Written permission requires several things: the identity of the hunter; the scope of permission, including any limitations; the identity of the landowner who is giving permission to hunt; the date the permission is given; and the date the permission is set to expire.

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3. Liability
Hunters are liable for themselves while hunting on private property. Virginia law does not allow recreational property users to charge property owners in cases of injury or damage unless malicious intent is present. Property owners may require hunters to purchase insurance to hunt on the property.

4. Sunday Hunting
Sunday hunting is allowed, with permission, on private property. This includes hunts where dogs are permitted under current state regulations. Hunters should make sure their written permission card includes language that gives permission to hunt on Sunday.

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

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