Is it legal to kill small game in your backyard with an airgun at any time?

Question

Is it legal to kill small game in your backyard with an airgun at any time?

Answer 1

There are several factors to consider before you do this.

1. Are there any local laws forbidding the discharge of firearms in your town, and do they consider an air rifle a firearm?

2. Are any animals you intend to shoot, like rabbits and squirrels considered a game animal requiring a hunting license or have a hunting season?

3. Are any of the animals, such as magpies, a protected species?

4. Most importantly, is it SAFE to shoot in your yard? Do you know how far your pellet will travel, and how far away people and property are away from you?

Of course, you can just not worry about any of these questions, and just shoot away, but since you asked, I thought I'd try and help.

Answer 2

NO, No, no.*

Answer 3

Check with your local authorities.

Answer 4

Ditto on the check with you local Fish & Game office. There are many rules and regulations when it comes to taking animals, and they are different in every state. Some of your back yard critters may be protected, or they may only be hunted at a particular time of the year. There may also be regulations as to HOW you can dispatch of the animals, and you may need to get a permit. Ask lots of very specific questions when you talk to Fish & Game and make sure they give you clear answers. Good luck & happy hunting :)

Answer 5

IN CALIFORNIA, airguns are not considered as fire arms.

shooting an air rifle in city limits, NO. out in the country, YES.

if it is a coyote and smaller such as raccoons, skunks, jack rabbits, and other small rodents, you can shoot them as pests. only on your property though. anywhere else, even if you do have permission to and it's the same creatures as above, a hunting license is required.

Answer 6

Nope, its on your land, its your right.

Answer 7

You say "backyard". If you're in a Town or City,

it's probably illegal even to shoot the air-gun

in your backyard.

That said, if the neighbors don't mind,

who's to know?

Answer 8

I follow the don't ask don't tell policy and make sure I don't do it in front of the neighborhood kids or take out a neighbor's window. However, I don't do it for sport. I only do it if I have a pest the cats can't seem to take care of. Don't have to do it very often.