FAQs • Southampton, NY • CivicEngage

Who regulates deer hunting in the Town of Southampton?: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulates all activities associated with hunting in the Town of Southampton.

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Hunting Season

1. When is deer hunting season in the Town of Southampton?: The regular deer hunting season for bow hunting in all of Suffolk County is October 1 through January 31. The special firearms season for deer is January 3 through January 31.

2. Who regulates deer hunting in the Town of Southampton?: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulates all activities associated with hunting in the Town of Southampton.

3. How do I get a license to hunt deer?: The Town Clerk of the Town of Southampton issues hunting licenses. Proof of completing a hunter education course in the form of the Hunter Education Certificate of Qualification is required for persons who cannot provide proof they have ever possessed a hunting license.

4. What time of day is deer hunting permitted?: Deer hunting is permitted from sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week.

5. Can I permit others to hunt on my property?: Yes, you may give permission to hunters to use your property. For bow hunting, the hunter must follow the setback regulations listed under question #6. You must obtain a signed Landowner’s Endorsement form to hunt on any property with a licensed firearm. The Landowner’s Endorsement constitutes the landowner’s or lessee’s written consent to hunt on their lands in accordance with the conditions of the special season. The consent releases the landowner from any liability associated with hunting. A landowner or lessee may authorize no more than one hunter for each ten acres nor more than five hunters per 100 acres under his control.

6. Where is deer hunting allowed in the Town of Southampton?: Hunting is permitted on private property so long as the NYSDEC regulations are met. As such, it is illegal to discharge a firearm, crossbow or bow:
- So that the load or arrow/bolt passes over any part of a public highway.
- Within 500 feet for a firearm, 250 feet for a crossbow or 150 feet for a bow of any school, playground, or an occupied factory or church.
- Within 500 feet for a firearm, 250 feet for a crossbow or 150 feet for a bow of a dwelling, farm building or structure in occupation or use unless you own it, lease it, are an immediate member of the family, an employee, or have the owner’s consent.
There are several DEC owned properties within the Town of Southampton where hunting is permitted.

7. Are there residency restrictions to hunt in the Town of Southampton?: No, you do not need to be a resident of the Town of Southampton to hunt here.

8. Can hunting take place for any reason outside of hunting season?: Yes, Landowners may apply for a Deer Damage Permit (DDP) to take deer outside of the regular hunting season, but must meet specific criteria.

9. Is there a place to donate venison in the Town of Southampton?: Successful hunters can donate deer their deer for needy families, through the NYS Venison Donation Coalition. Approved venison processors are listed below: http://venisondonation.com/index.php?option=com_sobi2&sobi2Task=search&Itemid=56/Suffolk

10. Who do I call if I find a wounded deer?: Southampton Town Police at 631-728-3400
and the Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons 631-728-WILD