Deer Hunting in the Lebanon City Limits

The Lebanon City Council has approved a new ordinance, effective immediately, permitting archery deer hunting within city limits.  During the Monday night meeting, the ordinance will help manage the deer population in the city, while introducing strict regulations to ensure the safety of both hunters and residents. The ordinance doesn’t allow the use or discharge of guns or crossbows in the city limits. Using bows for target practice or any other purpose is not permitted. Hunters must complete a hunter education certification course.  Hunters must obtain permission from the landowner before hunting on private property. Additionally, hunting is only allowed on parcels of land that are at least two acres in size, though adjacent property owners may combine their parcels to meet this requirement.

The ordinance mandates that all hunting must be conducted from an elevated position at least ten feet high. Bows cannot be discharged within 100 yards of any street, public right-of-way, or dwelling. Furthermore, arrows must be permanently marked with the hunter’s Missouri Department of Conservation identification number.

The use of decoys, baits, or attractants is prohibited. Hunters are also required to pack out all trash and minimize their environmental impact. Field dressing of deer is not allowed on-site; all harvested deer must be removed from the designated hunting area by foot, hand cart, or sled.

Hunting on public property owned or managed by the City of Lebanon is strictly prohibited, and hunters must not consume or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances while hunting.

According to the City of Lebanon, the new ordinance addresses the challenges of managing the deer population within a small-town setting. By controlling deer numbers, the city aims to reduce the risk of vehicle collisions, and prevent property damage, while providing a source of locally sourced meat for families.

This ordinance does not allow for archery practice within city limits. All hunting activities must strictly adhere to the guidelines outlined in the ordinance to ensure the safety of the community and must comply with State of Missouri regulations.