Trail Camera Laws for Hunters in New York State

Hunters across New York State are preparing for the opening of deer season, which is only a couple of weeks away! Have you checked your trail cameras yet? Have you seen any decent bucks? If not, take a look. Reports indicate that the deer population remains strong in many areas.

Recently, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced changes for the 2026-27 hunting season. There will also be areas where unlimited amounts of deer permits and permit exchanges can take place. Make sure you check with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and this year’s hunting guide for the latest information so you can follow all applicable laws and regulations.

New Youth Hunting Rules in Erie County

Another change hunters should know about involves youth hunters in Erie County.

A new law allows certain youth hunters in Erie County to hunt with a shotgun this year. The measure was initially vetoed by the county executive, but the Erie County Legislature had enough votes to override the veto. As a result, the change will take effect this hunting season.

What About Trail Cameras on Public Land?

But back to the trail cameras. Where do you have yours placed?

Did you know that in some states, hunters are required to put their name and phone number on trail cameras if they are left on state-owned land? Some states require both the owner’s name and phone number to be clearly displayed on cameras placed on public property. Other states have BANNED them.

Related: Unlimited Doe Permits Available in New York State

Here in New York State, there doesn’t appear to be a specific statewide law requiring trail cameras to have the owner’s name or phone number on them. However, there are regulations regarding leaving personal property on public lands.

That could potentially include trail cameras, depending on the specific property and applicable regulations. If you’re planning to leave a camera on a state forest or other state-owned property, it’s a good idea to check the current DEC regulations before doing so.

I’ve Seen Some Good Bucks on Camera

I’ve seen some decent bucks on camera early this summer. Recently, though, I’ve mostly been seeing a couple of does and fawns. Every once in a while, I’ll catch a spike buck.

It’s always neat to see deer in velvet, but that will be changing soon as we get closer to the start of hunting season.

If you’re putting up a trail camera or checking one you already have, it might also be a good idea to place it a little higher in the tree.

I was talking with some friends who recommend positioning cameras higher so they aren’t as easy to detect by people who might be tempted to take them. Unfortunately, trespassing isn’t the only problem property owners and hunters have to worry about. There have also been reports of people stealing trail cameras that don’t belong to them.

Good Luck This Deer Season

Good luck this hunting season, and feel free to share those pictures and videos you get!

I love seeing the deer activity here in Western New York and across New York State. We are fortunate to have so many great areas for deer hunting, and if the early signs are any indication, this could be a great season.

Just remember to check the latest New York State DEC regulations before heading into the woods. Hunting laws and regulations can vary depending on the location, season and type of hunting activity.