On January 4, 2022, the Utah Wildlife Board (UWB) voted to restrict trail cameras and other hunting technologies during a public meeting. The UWB also approved cougar and black bear hunting changes in the state.
New Trail Camera and Hunting Technology Restrictions
On the heels of the implementation of HB 295 on May 5, 2021, the UWB surveyed over 14,000 big game hunters and received public comments on the subject of trail cameras in hunting. The feedback that the UWB received during their surveys showed that both hunters and the public are opposed to trail cameras for hunting.
Use of trail cameras for hunting
Following the January 4 meeting this year, all transmitting trail cameras are prohibited in aiding in harvesting wildlife or harvesting. The prohibition includes non-transmitting and non-handheld transmitting devices that show footage in real-time. The restriction applies between July 31 and December 31.
The new trail camera rules do not apply in the following situations:
- Educational or government organizations procuring wildlife information
- Trail cameras on private property monitoring for trespass or agricultural
- Localities involved in the Urban Deer Program
Note that trail cameras on private property intended for harvesting purposes between the restricted dates violate the new UWB rules.
Sale of trail cameras or footage
In addition to restrictions on the use of transmitting trail cameras, the UWB voted to prevent entities from the sale or purchase of trail camera footage in aiding or attempting to aid in the harvest of big game animals. The prohibition also includes data such as time and date of footage or location information.
Night-vision devices
The UWB also approved restrictions to the use of night vision devices. Some hunters use night vision devices to locate or attempt to locate wildlife. These devices enhance visible and non-visible light, altering how the user sees the visible light spectrum. This creates an unfair advantage over the animal and other hunters.
Learn More About Utah’s Updated Rules
New restrictions prevent night vision, thermal imaging, and infrared-imaging devices. Restrictions will be put in place 48 hours before hunts open and remain until 48 hours after the hunt has ended. The UWB feels that these new rules will help maintain a more sportsmanlike atmosphere during Utah hunting seasons.
For additional information, watch the UWB’s full meeting online. Discussion points include new hunting technology restrictions and changes made to Utah cougar and black bear hunting.
