Utah Wildlife Board Updates Surrender Rules and Variance Applications for Hunters

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources held a Wildlife Board Meeting on August 21, 2025, focusing on several key recommendations aimed at improving hunting regulations and addressing concerns raised by hunters. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by drought and wildfires in Utah, with officials expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts made to support wildlife during these difficult times.

One of the primary topics discussed was the proposed changes to the rules governing permit surrenders and variances. The board recommended aligning the rules for hunters who surrender permits less than 30 days before a hunt, allowing them to receive a refund and retain their points, similar to those who surrender more than 30 days in advance. Additionally, the timeframe for submitting medical variance applications was proposed to be reduced from 90 days to 30 days, streamlining the process for hunters facing unforeseen circumstances.

The board also addressed the need for clarity in the variance application process, emphasizing that applications would be thoroughly vetted to prevent abuse of the system. A new qualification for variances was introduced, allowing for court orders that prevent participation in hunts. Furthermore, the board agreed to remove COVID-19-related qualifications from variance rules, reflecting the current state of affairs.

In addition to permit regulations, the meeting included discussions on sportsman draw applications. The board proposed allowing individuals who draw a sportsman permit to still apply for points for other species they are ineligible to hunt that year. This change aims to treat these hunters equitably and maintain their point accumulation for future applications.

The board's recommendations received broad support, with unanimous votes from various regional advisory councils. However, there was some dissent regarding the proposed 30-day submission window for variance applications, with some members advocating for a longer period to accommodate unforeseen medical issues.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Division's commitment to adapting hunting regulations to better serve the needs of Utah's wildlife and the hunting community, while also addressing the challenges posed by environmental factors. The board's decisions will be implemented in the upcoming hunting seasons, reflecting a proactive approach to wildlife management in the state.