Utah is raising nonresident hunting fees across the board, with some costs set to double. The fee increases, effective July 1, 2025, come as part of Senate Bill 8, which aims to support wildlife management and conservation efforts. While these changes are designed to boost funding for these initiatives, they’re stirring up concerns about affordability and access for out-of-state hunters.
Under the new structure, nonresident hunters can expect substantial hikes. A basic hunting license will rise from $120 to $240. Application fees will increase from $16 to $32. A general season buck deer permits will jump from $418 to $836. Limited-entry bull elk tags will climb from $1,050 to $2,100.
Premium tags like those for desert bighorn sheep will see a rise from $2,244 to $4,488.
Why the Increase?
Utah’s Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) has justified the increases by highlighting the escalating costs associated with wildlife management and habitat preservation. This cost has grown particularly when it comes to growing environmental pressures and increased recreational demands.
Funds raised from these higher fees will directly support initiatives such as habitat restoration, species conservation, and law enforcement efforts aimed at combating poaching and protecting wildlife.
Despite these justifications, many out-of-state hunters have expressed concerns. Some fear the heightened fees may price them out of the opportunity to hunt in Utah, a state renowned for its exceptional wildlife diversity and hunting experiences. Industry experts suggest that Utah’s fee hike reflects a broader regional trend in Western states. Across the West, nonresident hunters increasingly bear higher financial costs to fund conservation efforts.
As the July 1, 2025, deadline approaches, nonresident hunters planning a trip to Utah should carefully review the updated fee structure to determine how it might impact their hunting plans and budgets.
Start saving your pennies now, kids. Hunting just keeps getting more expensive.
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