The City of Richland Center partners with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to support an Urban Deer Hunting Program within designated city-owned zones. This program is designed to help manage the local deer population in a safe and controlled manner, in accordance with Municipal Code Chapter 271, Ordinance No. 2019-10 and DNR regulations. 

Program Overview

Urban deer hunting is permitted by archery or crossbow during the annual Wisconsin DNR-designated archery seasons. All participants must:

• Follow all Wisconsin DNR regulations and City ordinances
• Possess a valid Wisconsin DNR Archery or Crossbow License
• Maintain a 300-foot buffer from parks and buildings (unless landowner permission is obtained)
• Shoot only from an elevated position using clearly marked equipment
• Obtain landowner permission before entering private property to retrieve game

How to Apply

1. All hunters must complete the official Urban Deer Hunting Application form

   • Required Documents

     • DNR Customer ID#

     • Valid WI DNR Archery/Crossbow License

     • Government-issued Photo ID

     • Passing Archery Proficiency Test Score Sheet

   • Request zone(s), date(s), and time(s)

     • Reference Zone Maps

     • Possible availability can be viewed on the Park Reservation Calendar

2. Pay $5 Application Fee Online or delivered to Clerk's Office

   • Payment must be received prior to review of requested dates

Application Review & Licensing

1. Once submitted, the application is reviewed jointly by the City Clerk and Parks & Recreation Department:
   • Documents are verified for accuracy and completeness
   • Payment is confirmed
   • Requested dates and zones are reviewed for availability
2. If approved:
   • A license number is issued
   • Approved zone(s), date(s), and time(s) are scheduled on the Park Reservation Calendar
   • Applicant receives email confirmation with hunting permit number and program terms
3. Returning hunters may use the same application form to request additional hunting dates, pending approval and availability

Hunter Requirements

1. Proficiency Test

   • Must be completed at Open Season Hunting Outlet or a similar provider (local archery purveyor)
   • Certification is valid for five seasons

2. Hunters Log

   • Licensed hunters must submit a Hunters Log within 72 hours of the end of the hunting season
     • Logs may be submitted following each hunt to ensure compliance
   • Logs include: Shots taken - even if zero, deer observed and recovered, public interactions (if any)

3. Failure to comply with program rules or to submit required logs may result in:

   • License revocation

   • Suspension from future participation

   • Fines, per Ordinance No. 2019-10