SCDNR Concludes Public Engagement Process on Hunting Deer with Dogs

August 24, 2026

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) appreciates the hunters, landowners, conservationists, and other citizens who participated in the Department’s public hearings and information-gathering process concerning hunting deer with dogs.

SCDNR undertook this process to better understand the concerns surrounding the issue and to gather information and data to inform the SCDNR Board and General Assembly.

The information received indicates that the primary concerns involve private property rights, hunting traditions, enforcement, changing land use, and relationships between landowners and hunters, rather than biological or natural resource management concerns. Because potential changes addressing these concerns would require legislative action, further consideration of the issue is appropriately left to the General Assembly.

Accordingly, SCDNR will immediately conclude its inquiries, meetings, and surveys and maintain a summary of the information received. Once the SCDNR Board approves a final report, it will be provided to the General Assembly. The existing statutory framework remains in place, and SCDNR will continue to enforce existing laws within its authority.

SCDNR sincerely appreciates everyone who took the time to participate in this process and share their thoughtful and thorough perspectives.

Board Meeting Recording: SCDNR experienced technical difficulties with the audio during portions of the SCDNR Board meeting. A recording of the meeting is available here for reference.