CHEYENNE — The passage of House Bill 211, which amends Wyoming Statute 23-3-306 regarding shooting wildlife from vehicles, took effect in February following Gov. Mark Gordon’s official signature. Although the amendment does relax some of the statutes for shooting from a vehicle, important restrictions remain in place and should be noted by the public.

“The law as amended still prohibits shooting most wildlife from a vehicle,” said Aaron Kerr, Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Game and Fish Department. “We encourage individuals to take the time to fully understand the requirements and restrictions in order to stay in compliance with Wyoming statutes.”

While shooting some nongame species such as prairie dogs from a vehicle is now legal, shooting from a public road or highway, including the area within 30 feet on either side of a roadway, is still prohibited. Additionally, the bill only authorizes the take of unprotected wildlife.  This does not include wildlife that would require a permit or license to harvest.

Kerr said the legislation will not change requirements surrounding hunting regulations. He emphasized the responsibility for hunters to review the statute and understand the requirements and restrictions for hunting activities in the state.

“This legislation will not change anything for hunters who are taking animals that require a license or permit,” he said. “As with any questions about hunting or fishing laws or regulations, members of the public should call a local regional office or a game warden.”

A listing of Wyoming’s nongame species, including protected species, can be found on the nongame wildlife page on the Game and Fish website. Restrictions and requirements for animals defined in statute as “predatory animal” remain unchanged. 

To support individuals with mobility impairments, Game and Fish offers permits that allow hunting from vehicles. For more information on these accessible hunting opportunities, visit the department’s Accessible Hunting Permit page.