NC Wildlife Commission Opens Public Comment Period for 2027–28 Regulation Changes

The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is asking North Carolinians to weigh in on proposed 2027–2028 hunting, fishing, and game land regulation changes, with public comments open now through September 14, 2026.

The agency reviews seasons, bag limits, and land‑management rules each year to meet conservation goals, comply with state law, and respond to feedback from hunters, anglers, and land users. Officials say public participation is a key part of shaping the upcoming regulations.

Virtual Hearings Scheduled for August

Two online public hearings will give residents a chance to learn more and speak directly to NCWRC staff:

• August 20, 2026 — 12:00 p.m. Zoom webinar, pre‑registration required.
• August 25, 2026 — 6:00 p.m. Zoom webinar, pre‑registration required.

How to Submit Comments

Residents can share feedback in three ways:

• Online:  Click Here
• Email: regulations@ncwildlife.gov (Include name, county, and state of residence.)
• Mail: Rulemaking Coordinator 1701 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699‑1701

What Happens Next

Commissioners will review all comments and consider the proposed changes at their October 2026 meeting. If adopted, most rules would take effect August 1, 2027, covering the 2027–28 inland fishing, hunting, and trapping seasons. A smaller number of regulations could begin earlier, on January 1, 2027.

NCWRC has overseen wildlife management in North Carolina since 1947 and updates regulations annually to balance conservation needs with public use.

Residents can review current rules in the Regulations Digest and view all proposed changes on the agency’s website.