Wildlife Code of Missouri
Rules of the Conservation Commission
Every year, the Conservation Department’s regulations committee reads hundreds of letters and e-mail messages from Missouri’s hunters, trappers, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts who have suggestions or complaints about wildlife management or regulations. Each year, the committee members also look at hunting and fishing surveys and opinion polls from Missourians across the state. We then seek the expert opinion of the Department’s research biologists and managers to learn how Missouri’s natural resources are faring under current regulations.
Out of this process comes recommendations to the director and the conservation commission on changes to next year’s Wildlife Code of Missouri. These regulations are established to manage Missouri’s valuable plant and animal communities, to provide equal opportunity to share and enjoy these resources, and to promote public safety.
Most regulation changes go into effect March 1 each year. Because regulations on Department lands are set to protect wildlife and to provide access to the public, they may change throughout the year, especially after the fall deer, turkey and waterfowl regulations are established. It’s always a good idea to get a current list of regulations before traveling to hunt or fish on a Department area, especially during the fall deer and turkey seasons.
The Wildlife Code is available online as part of the Code of State Regulations and is published by the Missouri Secretary of State. Printed versions are available at permit vendors statewide.
Area regulations and maps are available from the Atlas and at Conservation Department regional offices.
