New Wildlife Access Rules Coming To Utah In 2026

A series of wildlife-related bills passed during Utah’s 2026 legislative session are set to bring changes to public land access, conservation funding and habitat management in the coming years. March 26 marked the deadline for Spencer Cox to sign or veto legislation, and several measures affecting wildlife management were approved.

One of the most notable updates comes through HB30, which revises a 2025 law governing access to wildlife management areas in Davis, Salt Lake, Utah and Weber counties. Beginning July 1, 2026, individuals 18 and older who do not hold a hunting or fishing license can instead watch an educational video and obtain a free digital access permit to enter these areas. The law also introduces an option for visitors to voluntarily donate toward conservation or habitat projects tied to specific wildlife management areas, which are primarily funded through license sales.

“WMAs are uniquely important because they are the only public lands in Utah whose sole purpose is enhancing and protecting wildlife resources,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Wildlife Lands Coordinator Chelsea Duke said in a press release. “These properties ensure that critical wildlife habitat is conserved, conflicts between wildlife and private landowners are reduced and Utahns have dedicated places to participate in hunting, fishing and other wildlife-based recreation.”

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The new access requirements will initially apply only to select counties but will expand statewide by July 2028. Utah currently manages 149 wildlife management areas totaling more than 500,000 acres.

Additional legislation includes HB93, which establishes the Goshen Bay Waterfowl Management Area along Utah Lake. The site will be managed to support waterfowl habitat and expand hunting opportunities.

Aquatic Regulations Also Updated

HB125 modifies aquatic invasive species regulations by removing the mandatory Mussel Aware Education Course requirement for nonmotorized watercraft users, while combining that course with the state’s boating safety education for motorized operators beginning in 2027.

Efforts to improve wildlife safety along roadways are addressed in HB431, which allocates $2 million annually for wildlife crossing projects and creates a dedicated account within the Utah Department of Transportation. Residents will also have the option to contribute when purchasing hunting permits or registering vehicles.

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Finally, HB376 establishes the Utah Forest Restoration Institute at Utah State University, backed by $1.9 million in funding to support watershed and forest health projects.