Blog: Firearms and the new Minnesota law about hunter regulations
By: Alex R. Flaten
INTRODUCTION
Minnesota has a long and proud hunting tradition. For generations, hunters across the state have relied on clear regulations to ensure safety, conservation, and fair access to wildlife resources. Recently, however, Minnesota lawmakers passed legislation that significantly changes firearm rules for deer hunting. These changes will affect where and how certain firearms can be used during the hunting season.
Understanding the new law is important for hunters, landowners, and anyone who enjoys Minnesota’s outdoors. Below is a simple explanation of the key changes and what they mean moving forward.
THE END OF MINNESOTA’S “SHOTGUN ZONE”
For decades, Minnesota divided the state into two primary firearm hunting zones for deer: a rifle zone and a shotgun-only zone. The shotgun-only zone covered much of southern Minnesota and required hunters to use shotguns with slugs, muzzleloaders, or handguns rather than rifles.
This restriction dates back to the 1940s and was originally intended to reduce long-range shooting in more densely populated or flat areas of the state. However, the Minnesota Legislature has now repealed the shotgun zone, with the change taking effect beginning with the 2026 deer hunting season.
Once the law takes effect:
Hunters will generally be allowed to use any legal firearm statewide during the regular deer firearms season.
This includes rifles, which previously were not permitted in the southern shotgun zone.
The change modernizes Minnesota hunting regulations and aligns them with firearm technology and current deer population management practices.
COUNTIES STILL HAVE LOCAL AUTHORITY
Although the statewide shotgun zone is being eliminated, the new law includes an important caveat. Counties that were previously inside the shotgun zone will have the authority to adopt local ordinances restricting firearm types if they choose.
This means:
Some counties may continue requiring shotguns only for deer hunting.
Other counties may allow rifles and other legal firearms.
Hunters will need to check local county rules before hunting.
In other words, the law moves Minnesota toward more local control, meaning regulations may vary depending on where you hunt.
OTHER HUNTING REGULATION CHANGES
The same legislative package also included a few additional changes affecting hunters:
1.) Simplified Deer Hunting Licenses
Minnesota has simplified the licensing system by eliminating the former “B season” license. A single statewide firearms license can now be used for both the regular firearms season and the late southeast season.
2.) Continued Efforts to Monitor Wildlife Disease
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) continues expanding surveillance for chronic wasting disease (CWD), including testing stations during hunting season in affected areas.
These updates are designed to make regulations easier to understand while still protecting Minnesota’s wildlife populations.
WHY THE LAW CHANGED
Supporters of the change argue that the old shotgun zone had become outdated. Advances in firearm technology, improved hunter education, and changing deer populations have led policymakers to revisit older regulations. Allowing rifles statewide may give hunters more flexibility and improve deer population management in certain areas, while local governments still retain the ability to impose restrictions if safety concerns arise.
Legal Issues Hunters Should Keep in Mind
Even with these changes, hunters must still follow all existing hunting laws, including:
Proper licensing and permits
Legal firearm and ammunition requirements
Hunting season dates and bag limits
Local ordinances or property restrictions
Violating Minnesota hunting laws can lead to fines, loss of hunting privileges, or other legal consequences.
HOW JENNRICH LAW CAN HELP
Outdoor recreation is a big part of life in Minnesota, but hunting laws and firearm regulations can sometimes be confusing—especially when new legislation changes long-standing rules.
At Jennrich Law, we help individuals understand their legal rights and responsibilities under Minnesota law. Whether you have questions about hunting regulations, firearm laws, property rights, or other legal matters, our team is here to help provide clear guidance.
