Bill aimed at helping Illinois farmers control deer populations heads to Pritzker’s desk

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — Legislation aimed at making it easier for residents to obtain a hunting permit — and to help control the deer population — has passed both the Illinois Senate and House, and is headed towards the governor’s desk.

Under Senate Bill 710, IDNR would implement new rules for the Deer Removal Permit. Landowners would be allowed to let other individuals “destroy” deer responsible for damage under a permit given to the landowner.

And, landowner deer and turkey permits could be given for free to an Illinois resident that owns at least 40 acres of Illinois land and that wishes to hunt on their own land. Tenant deer and turkey permits could be given for free to Illinois residents that are living on at least 40 acres of commercial agricultural land, wishing to hunt on land they live on.

The legislation would also allow for permits to automatically be issued, specifically for those who have effectively reduced the deer population, and other certain conditions. You can read more about those conditions here.

Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan said this legislation will help farmers and address costly damage from deer.

“Illinois farmers know all too well the costly damage nuisance deer can cause to crops and farmland,” Duncan said. “This legislation will provide farmers with effective tools to help manage deer populations and protect farmland across the state. We thank Sen. Patrick Joyce and Rep. Marcus Evans for championing legislation that provides these practical tools, as well as the Illinois Department of Natural Resources [IDNR] for their efforts.”

If Governor JB Pritzker signs Senate Bill 710 into law, it would be effective Jan. 1, 2026. You can read more about the legislation here.