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Meeker County schedules Feb. 17 public hearing on possible rifle restrictions for deer hunting

Meeker County Board of Commissioners · January 7, 2026

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Summary

After noting a recent state law change that removed the shotgun zone, Meeker County set a Feb. 17, 2026 public hearing to consider an ordinance that would restrict legal deer-hunting firearms to shotguns only; the board decided to hold the hearing in the main meeting room (recorded) and publicize it in the county paper and website.

Meeker County commissioners set a public hearing for Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. to consider a draft ordinance that would limit types of firearms used for deer hunting within the county.

Staff explained that the state legislature recently repealed the statute creating the shotgun zone; the repeal included a provision allowing counties to regulate the types of firearms used to hunt deer in their jurisdictions. The county was previously in a shotgun zone, and the repeal means counties choosing a restriction must adopt an ordinance and notify the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources by May 1 for the restriction to be included in DNR’s seasonal materials. Without county action, rifles would be allowed under the new law.

Commissioners debated logistics, including whether to hold the hearing in the main meeting room (which allows recording and broadcast) or the Bernie Acker Auditorium (more seating but no recording). The board chose to hold the hearing in the main room and provide overflow viewing; staff said the county will publish notices in the newspaper and post details to the county website and likely radio.

Commissioner Johnson moved to set the hearing; Commissioner Schmidt seconded the motion, which carried on a voice vote. Board members said they expected public interest and emphasized that the hearing is for public input only; no decision on an ordinance would be made that evening. The board requested time to absorb testimony before deciding on any ordinance.