Utah Wildlife Laws 2024: What You Need To Know Now

The 2024 legislative session in Utah witnessed the passing of numerous bills, with March 21 marking the deadline for Governor Spencer Cox to either sign or veto them. Among the significant legislative actions were several bills concerning wildlife management that have now become law.

HB222, the Wildlife Hunting Amendments, introduces changes such as modifications to hunter orange requirements during hunting seasons, emphasizing visibility for safety. It also clarifies the usage of big game byproducts in dog food and expands the mandate for wearing hunter orange to include certain recreational users on wildlife management areas during big game hunts. The law will take effect on May 1.

HB382, the Wildlife Amendments, introduces a range of provisions. Notably, it designates new developments after May 1, 2024, as encroaching on existing wildlife habitats, potentially affecting wildlife damage claims. Additionally, it addresses antler and horn gathering regulations, imposing restitution values and proposing rules for commercial activity. The law also tightens regulations on taxidermists and butchers regarding wildlife carcasses and addresses enforcement of wildlife laws and trespassing issues. Implementation of shed antler gathering rules will be discussed in public meetings the following year.

HB2, the New Fiscal Year Supplemental Appropriations Act, allocates $8.5 million for acquiring private property in Morgan County to expand the East Canyon Wildlife Management Area, benefiting big game animals and sage grouse habitat. Part of the land will be managed as an extension of East Canyon State Park. Additionally, the law boosts the Endangered Species Mitigation Fund by $2 million, aiding conservation efforts for native species.

Lastly, HB469 approves the creation of a new Division of Law Enforcement under the Utah Department of Natural Resources, unifying various enforcement agencies under one umbrella, effective January 1, 2025. These legislative measures aim to address various aspects of wildlife management and conservation in Utah, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance human activity with the preservation of natural habitats and species.