Houston County discusses whether to keep 'shotgun-only' deer hunting after state law change

Houston County commissioners discussed a recent change in state deer-hunting law that takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, and whether the county should enact or retain a ‘‘shotgun-only’’ ordinance for its hunting zones.

Board members and residents described the change as significant for local safety and enforcement. Speaker 2 said counties have the authority to limit firearm deer hunting and that the county must notify the Department of Natural Resources by May 1 if it adopts an ordinance. A county representative noted the DNR indicated it will enforce a county’s decision to remain shotgun-only: ‘‘they have already been advised that if a county does choose to stay with shotgun that they will enforce that ordinance,’’ one speaker said during discussion.

Public commenters urged retaining shotgun-only rules. Linda Griggs said she strongly encouraged the board ‘‘to retain the shotgun only, regulations in Houston County’’ and described hilly terrain and near-miss hunting incidents as reasons for safety concerns. Steve Hartwick also described concerns about enforcement capacity; he noted sheriff staffing constraints and questioned whether counties would need to re-notify or renew an opt-out each year — county staff clarified that once enacted the county ordinance would remain in place until changed by the board.

The board discussed holding public hearings to collect input and directed staff to prepare materials and copies for commissioners. No ordinance was enacted at this meeting; the county scheduled further public meetings and outreach.

Next steps: staff will prepare public outreach and schedule hearings next year to take public input and consider whether to adopt a local opt-out ordinance.