With hunting season well underway, the rules for accessing privately owned land have changed in Saskatchewan. Hunters must now obtain explicit permission from landowners or occupants before entering their property. This update applies to all privately owned lands and offers several ways to secure permission.
Types of Permission
Hunters can obtain permission in three different ways:
- Verbal: A simple spoken agreement from the landowner.
- Written: A written record of the landowner’s consent.
- Electronic: Digital permission through email or text.
While verbal permission is valid, it is recommended that hunters use written or electronic methods to maintain a clear record of permission in case of disputes.
How to Find Landowner Contact Information
For hunters unfamiliar with landowners, local Rural Municipality (RM) offices may provide RM or Landowner Maps that include contact details. However, these maps are not guaranteed and are given at the discretion of the RM office. Hunters are encouraged to reach out directly to RM offices for guidance on whether a map will be available.
Land Exempt from the New Requirements
Not all land in Saskatchewan requires permission to hunt. The following areas are exempt from the new rules:
- Vacant Provincial Land: As defined in The Provincial Lands Act, 2016.
- Crown Land Prescribed in Regulations: Hunters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these specific lands, as outlined in the regulations.
Vacant provincial land refers to government-owned land that has not been leased or designated for specific use.
Fish and Wildlife Development Fund (FWDF) Lands
Hunters can access FWDF lands solely owned by the Ministry of Environment without permission. However, if FWDF land is jointly owned by the ministry and a conservation group—such as Ducks Unlimited, Nature Conservancy of Canada, or Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation—permission must be obtained from the conservation partner.
Hunters can explore available FWDF lands through the HABISask interactive mapping system.
Community Pastures
All community pastures in Saskatchewan are now operated by local patrons. These pastures, previously managed by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Saskatchewan Pasture Program, are leased to patron groups. Hunters interested in accessing community pastures must contact the pasture manager or a designated representative from the patron group for access information.
For additional information, visit the Access to Agriculture Crown Land During Hunting Season website.
Hunting in Provincial Parks, Regional Parks, and Recreation Sites
Hunting is generally not allowed in park lands defined under The Parks Act, unless otherwise noted in the open season tables in the Hunters Guide. Specific rules may apply to each park, including access regulations, vehicle usage, and baiting policies.
Hunters are advised to consult with the local park manager for permission and more detailed guidelines before planning any hunting activities within park boundaries.
Landowner Options for Allowing Hunting
For landowners willing to grant access to hunters, several options are available to communicate permission:
- Posting Signs: Landowners can post clear signs at the entrance to their property, specifying time, duration, and location for hunting, as well as methods allowed and rules on vehicle use.
- Verbal Permission: A simple conversation between the hunter and landowner is sufficient.
- Written or Electronic Permission: Landowners can provide written or electronic consent for easier record-keeping.
As hunting season progresses, hunters and landowners alike are encouraged to work together, ensuring safe and respectful access to Saskatchewan’s vast land resources. If you have further questions, you can contact the Ministry of Environment Inquiry Line at 1- 800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca