As a lifelong hunter, I appreciate the outdoors during this time of year. It is also a time when those of us who choose to pursue the great American sport, must also respect the property rights of others.

In the State of Louisiana, property does not have to be legally posted any longer to prevent unauthorized persons from trespassing. In order to enter onto private property for hunting or any other reason, one must get permission of the owner to do so. Failure to obtain permission of the landowner can result in a criminal charge of trespassing.

As hunting season has begun, my office has also begun to receive complaints of weapons being discharged in close proximity to residences. Under Section 14-6 of the St. Charles Parish Code of Ordinances, no shotgun should be discharged within 800 feet of any residence.

This is about the distance of two football fields. Rifles shall not be fired within 2,000 feet of a residence (over six football fields). Of course, both can only be fired on private property with permission of the owners. It is strongly suggested that hunters carry written permission from the landowner with them. The Bonnet Care Spillway has special regulations on the discharge of shotguns which can be found in the ordinance. Rifles or pistols cannot be discharged in the spillway.

We have also received at least one complaint of a protected species of hawk being shot and fatally wounded. Birds such as bald eagles, egrets, hawks and owls are protected and should never be fired at. Parents should be aware of the above rules and advise their children of them.

My office provides hunter education courses several times per year. Young people need to take and pass this course in order to obtain a hunting license in Louisiana.

Lets all have a safe hunting season, and, one in which the rights of private property owners are respected.

Sheriff Greg Champagne
P.O. Box 426
Hahnville, LA 70057
(985) 783-6237