Hunting Regulations

All restrictions are noted on the hunting zone charts above. Please note that Connecticut state law requires hunters to have written permission from the landowner prior to hunting on private land. In Massachusetts, some towns, particularly in the eastern part of the state, require landowner permission prior to hunting. If you are uncertain if a town requires such permission, visit the Town Clerk’s office and ask for any relevant bylaws relating to hunting (or shooting). It is the hunter’s responsibility to know and understand these bylaws, as NEFF does not track each town’s specific regulations.

If you know the forest you plan to hunt is located in a town requiring landowner permission, you will need to contact our Stewardship Manager prior to hunting. If you are hunting on a property not in Connecticut or not in a town requiring landowner permission, there is nothing that you need to do.

We do not require that hunters donate to NEFF in order to hunt in our woodlands, and we do not have a membership program. However, your support is always appreciated, as every dollar we receive helps us manage and maintain these properties for future generations.

We permit only modern tree stands, which are not nailed or spiked to trees. Because we actively manage our forests for many resources, including timber, we cannot allow any stands that may damage trees or put loggers in harm’s way if equipment were to hit residual metal. Please note that stands must be labeled clearly, with the name and contact information of the hunter. Stands may be placed on NEFF property one month prior to opening day and they must be removed within one month of the close of hunting season (see permission above).

Currently, there are no species restrictions on our properties.

To locate a NEFF forest near you, visit the Trail Maps page. Currently, you can search our interactive map by state to find the closest or most appropriate fit for your interests, or simply zoom in on your desired location.

PDF maps for each NEFF forest can be found on the Trail Maps page.

Our forests are not closed during hunting seasons. If you plan to enjoy the forest for other recreational purposes, you may wish to wear bright colors to make yourself visible. Hunters typically are responsible people, and will do everything possible to maintain the highest level of safety in the woods. If you are concerned, you may wish to seek out a NEFF forest that does not allow hunting, or one that allows hunting only during restricted seasons.