KRS 150.180: Hunting on Private Property Without Permission

What Is KRS 150.180?

KRS 150.180 prohibits hunting on private property without the owner’s consent in Kentucky. The statute is enforced by both Department of Fish and Wildlife officers and local law enforcement. People in rural areas of Lexington, Louisville, and across Kentucky face these charges from misunderstanding property boundaries.

What the Statute Requires

Hunters must have permission from landowners before:

Entering private land to hunt
Pursuing game across property boundaries
Crossing private property to access hunting areas

Penalties Under KRS 150.180

Fines plus court costs
Possible loss of hunting privileges
Forfeiture of equipment in some cases
Civil liability to property owner

Common Scenarios

Pursuing wounded game across property lines
Hunting without verifying property boundaries
Continuing to hunt on land where permission was withdrawn
Hunting on posted property

Defenses Available

You had permission to hunt
The property wasn’t actually posted
You were tracking wounded game (limited defense)
Mistake about property boundaries

Clark + Harris Defends Wildlife Cases

Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

If this information applied to your situation, the following Clark + Harris guides may also be helpful: