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7 Ways to be a good land user

As hunting season approaches, many of us are preparing gear, scouting locations, and looking forward to time outdoors. Access to private land plays an important role in Maine's hunting tradition, and that access depends on the relationships we build with landowners. Whether you're hunting a familiar property or seeking permission somewhere new, a little courtesy goes a long way. Here are seven simple ways to be a good land user and help keep Maine's outdoor traditions strong:

Always Ask Permission: Always get permission, even if the land isn’t posted. Look up landowner information through the town office or online. Permission is not indefinite - check in each year.

Respect Landowner Preferences: Follow all landowner requests about parking, activities, and access. Their comfort should come first.

Communicate Clearly: Offer your name, contact information, and a description of your vehicle. Courtesy cards can help make a good impression. Download a landowner/land user courtesy card (PDF).

Give Back: Show appreciation by offering to help with property projects, share some of your harvest (deer meat is delicious), or offer to teach them about the wildlife and sign on their property. If they hunt themselves, offer to purchase an antlerless deer permit for them. Download this form to collect all necessary information.

Know Your Boundaries: Stay within property lines. Trespassing can result in fines or loss of licenses.

Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and pick up litter. Treat the land better than your own.

Follow the Rules and Say Thank You: Obey all laws and report violations. Always thank landowners for their generosity.

Thank a Landowner

Become an Outdoor Partner

Maine's outdoor traditions are built on a long history of landowners welcoming others onto their property. Help keep this tradition strong by becoming an Outdoor Partner.

Add an Outdoor Partnership when purchasing a license or permit online, or purchase a membership separately. Outdoor Partners are entered into weekly prize drawings throughout the year and can shop exclusive Outdoor Partner gear from our online store.

Dept of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife

7 Ways to be a good land user

Become an Outdoor Partner

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