Vermont 2023-2024 Regular Session

Vermont Senate Bill S0022

Introduced

1/18/23

Refer

1/18/23

Caption

An act relating to the posting of land against hunting or fishing

Impact

This bill impacts the legal framework surrounding property rights and public access to land in Vermont. By allowing for paint markings in addition to signs, the bill recognizes modern methods of notifying the public about land use restrictions. Moreover, the bill requires land postings to be recorded with the town clerk, enhancing transparency and legal clarity over property boundaries and intended uses. The implementation of this law could lead to changes in how hunting and fishing are regulated, particularly in private areas.

Summary

Bill S0022 proposes a new framework for landowners in Vermont to effectively post their land against hunting or fishing. The bill permits landowners to utilize visible paint markings on trees and posts at the boundaries of their properties to indicate that such activities are restricted or allowed only with permission. This is in addition to the existing requirement for posting traditional notice signs. The intention behind this legislation is to simplify the process for landowners who wish to restrict access to their properties while ensuring that the public is adequately notified.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding Bill S0022 involves the balance between private property rights and public access to recreational activities. Proponents argue that the measure better equips landowners to secure their property and manage access, while opponents may raise concerns about the potential for confusion over boundaries and the impact on hunting and fishing rights. Discussions in legislative sessions may also touch on environmental considerations, as changes in access could influence wildlife management practices.

Additional_points

The bill outlines specific requirements for the character and placement of paint markings, such as minimum height and visibility, aimed at preventing any ambiguity regarding the prohibited areas. This specificity is likely to be crucial in implementation as both landowners and recreational users adapt to the new regulations. The effective date of the law is slated for July 1, 2023, indicating a transition phase for educational campaigns and compliance.

Latest VT S0022 Activity

View All Events: VT 2023-2024 Regular Session S0022

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VT HB0168

Hunting and Fishing Amendments

VT HB07231

An Act Authorizing Sunday Hunting On Private Lands.

VT HB1462

Hunting and fishing on lands of others by unlawful entry; remove requirement of payment of restitution to landowner for whitetail deer taken thereon.

VT HB1431

In game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations and for unlawful activities; and, in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, further providing for unlawful devices and methods and for trespass on private property while hunting and repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday without written permission.

VT HB851

In preliminary provisions, further providing for definitions; in Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission, providing for prohibition and further providing for accountability; in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, providing for temporary Sunday hunting authorized and for hunting and training on Sunday, repealing provisions relating to trespass on private property while hunting and to hunting on Sunday without written permission, providing for the offense of trespass on private land while hunting or furtaking and for the offense of hunting, trapping or taking game or wildlife without written permission and further providing for training dogs on small game; in special licenses and permits, further providing for field dog trials; imposing penalties; and making an editorial change.

VT SB67

In Pennsylvania Game Commission, further providing for organization of commission; in game or wildlife protection, further providing for regulations, for report to commission officer, for surrender of carcass to commission officer and for unlawful activities; and, in hunting and furtaking, repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday prohibited, further providing for unlawful devices and methods and for the offense of trespass on private property while hunting and repealing provisions relating to hunting on Sunday without written permission.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.