Bill > HB4939

This bill modifies Texas Parks and Wildlife Code to change how deer ownership is determined. Currently, all wild animals are considered state property, but the bill introduces an exception for deer. Under the new provision, a deer becomes the personal property of the landowner if the tract of land is enclosed by a fence at least seven feet high that can reasonably and ordinarily retain the deer. This means that on such a fenced property, deer would be considered the landowner's private property rather than belonging to the state. The bill also clarifies that constructing such a fence does not create liability for restricting wild animal movement. These changes represent a significant shift in how deer are legally classified, giving landowners more control over deer on their fully enclosed properties. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing time for landowners and wildlife management authorities to prepare for the new regulations.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4939