This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: image — description: **PDF page 109 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: image — description: **PDF page 110 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: image — description: **PDF page 111 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: image — description: **PDF page 112 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: cross-references — description: **THE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT ZONES ARE NOT IN THIS FILING AND FOUR OF THE SEVEN SEASONS DEPEND ON THEM.** The definition printed here says *'Zone or Zones means the Massachusetts wildlife management zones as described in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(o)'*, and this leaf is CMR pages 43-46: subsection (o) is on page 47 or later and the compliance filing does not reprint it. A hunter cannot tell whether their ground is in Zone 13 or 14 -- the two zones that carry the January winter season and the extra antlered deer -- from anything in this document. **And one season row carries an EMPTY `zones` field on purpose:** 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)4., the primitive firearms season, states no territorial scope at all in its own text, where (b)2. says 'In all zones' and (b)3. says 'throughout Massachusetts'. The empty field is the regulation's silence, reproduced; it is not a scope this extraction failed to read, and it is not a claim that the season is statewide.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: cross-references — description: **THE ANTLERLESS BAG LIMIT IS A NUMBER THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT STATE.** 321 CMR 3.02(4)(d)2. sets it as *'the number of valid antlerless deer permits and attached deer tags that are possessed by such person'*, and how many permits are issued for a zone, and how they are drawn, is nowhere on these four pages. The limit published here is the rule; the operative figure is elsewhere.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: cross-references — description: **THE FIRST PART OF THE DEFINITIONS IS ON THE PRECEDING LEAF.** These pages open mid-list, at *Baited Area*, under a running head reading '3.02: continued'. The opening of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(a) and any term alphabetically before *Baited Area* are on CMR page 42, which this filing does not reprint and which is not in this Register issue.
This record does not carry a regulation the state has. kind: cross-references — description: **REGULATIONS THIS TEXT INCORPORATES AND DOES NOT REPRODUCE:** 321 CMR 3.01(3), which specifies the bow and arrow that may be used; 321 CMR 2.03, which governs coyote hunting and is the exception to the shotgun-shell possession rule; and M.G.L. c. 131, sections 4, 5, 14, 71 and 72, which are the enabling statute and the youth hunting law. Each is named in a published row and none is carried.
huntregs is not the law and is not an official edition of any state’s regulations: no state agency writes, reviews, publishes or approves it, and where a page here differs from the agency document it cites, the agency document is the regulation and this page is wrong.
It is an editorial compilation of state agency regulation documents: every row is carried verbatim out of one named document, cited by title, identified by the sha256 of the exact bytes we read, and printed beside the source lines it was read from.
What we do carry
rows verbatim — no row is summarised, and every field the source row carried is rendered, including the ones we have no column for;
each record’s own declaration of what it does not contain, printed in full and unedited, above the rows rather than under them;
our own withdrawals — dated, with the reason as written, and the state’s rows gone from every route while the withdrawal stands.
What we do not carry
the law itself. Every state page links the agency’s own document; that is the thing to read.
declared gaps. Where a record says regulation exists that it does not carry, that regulation is not here — it is named, in the record’s words, and it is still missing.
zone, unit or boundary geometry. The compilation holds no maps and this app draws none; several records declare that as a gap themselves.
shooting hours. Clock, sunrise and sunset text is shown exactly as written — nothing here computes a sunrise, a sunset or a timezone.
legal advice, or any judgement about whether a particular hunt is lawful for you.
every state. Some have no record in this compilation at all and some are withheld by the verification ledger today; which is which is measured on the index page each time it is loaded, not listed here.
Error direction — If this record is wrong, it is most likely wrong toward saying you MAY do something you may not.
That is the direction that ends in a citation, or in a hunter on ground the state has closed. Read the signals below before you use any row on this page.
Derived by rule from this record's own declared gaps, its own integrity fields and its own rows. It is not a score and there is no confidence number: the counts below count signals, nothing more.
1 over-permissive · 11 undeterminable · 0 under-permissive · 11 declared gap(s), 8 of which the record says carry regulation · 75 row(s) scanned
9 signal(s), most dangerous first. The evidence lines below are the rule's own excerpts, cut at 220 characters; every gap is printed in full and verbatim under what this record does not carry.
overOVER: the gap names a restriction, requirement, closure or supersession the record does not carry [limit_or_quota='BAG LIMIT']; a row read without it is broader than the regulation
known_gaps[5]: **THE ANTLERLESS BAG LIMIT IS A NUMBER THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT STATE.** 321 CMR 3.02(4)(d)2. sets it as *'the number of valid antlerless deer permits and attached deer tags that are possessed by such person'*, and how ma…
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='image'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[0]: **PDF page 109 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font …
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='image'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[1]: **PDF page 110 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font …
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='image'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[2]: **PDF page 111 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font …
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='image'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[3]: **PDF page 112 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font …
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='cross-references'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[4]: **THE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT ZONES ARE NOT IN THIS FILING AND FOUR OF THE SEVEN SEASONS DEPEND ON THEM.** The definition printed here says *'Zone or Zones means the Massachusetts wildlife management zones as described in 3…
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='cross-references'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[6]: **THE FIRST PART OF THE DEFINITIONS IS ON THE PRECEDING LEAF.** These pages open mid-list, at *Baited Area*, under a running head reading '3.02: continued'. The opening of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(a) and any term alphabetically …
unknowncannot be determined: the gap carries regulation but its description names neither a restriction nor an opportunity in terms this rule can read (kind='cross-references'). Boundary, map and definition gaps land here and belong here — not knowing which unit you are in cuts both ways
known_gaps[7]: **REGULATIONS THIS TEXT INCORPORATES AND DOES NOT REPRODUCE:** 321 CMR 3.01(3), which specifies the bow and arrow that may be used; 321 CMR 2.03, which governs coyote hunting and is the exception to the shotgun-shell po…
unknown2 page boundary/boundaries beside the cited range were never inspected. A table that continues past a citation loses whole rows — the missing rows could be further seasons (under) or the restrictions on the ones published (over), and this is the check five states went OFFLINE for skipping.
p108 (beside cited p109) — neither page draws vertical rules — the Arkansas class, and this method cannot see prose, so the conti…
p113 (beside cited p112) — neither page draws vertical rules — the Arkansas class, and this method cannot see prose, so the conti…
what this rule cannot see
It reads this record's OWN prose. A restriction nobody declared is invisible to it — and an undeclared restriction is what takes a state offline.
It takes each gap's carries_regulation flag at face value. A gap mis-declared as non-regulatory is a silent miss.
It cannot weigh. One missing county list and fourteen missing pages of special-permit hunts each score once. There is no severity here, and that is why no score is shown.
It classifies a whole gap, never a row. A gap that qualifies four rows and a gap that qualifies all of them read identically.
Across the published records the record-level answer is almost always over. That is a statement about how regulation is written — what is missing from a compilation is usually a restriction — not a ranking of states.
Record integrity
Current through — the document this record was read from, and nothing later than it:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
The document is those bytes. A URL is a name; if the publisher replaces the file behind it, this hash stops matching and the mismatch is the finding.
We fetched it on 2026-08-08. That is our retrieval date, not a publication date. This record carries no date on which its publisher issued, adopted, amended or last revised that document, so this page states none. Any effective, issue or adoption date the document states of itself is inside the citation above, in the publisher’s own words — nothing here lifts it out or restates it as a fact of ours.
The publisher is named inside that citation, in the publisher’s own words. This record carries no publisher field of its own, so nothing here names one separately.
The record states its own regulation year as 2026. That is the record’s field, not a currency claim: a record may state a year older than the day we fetched it, and where it does, it says so here.
Do not take our word for it. The document every row on this page was read out of is one tap away, and checking us against it is exactly what the citation, the sha256 and the source lines under each row are for.
If that document says something this page does not, the document is the regulation and this page is wrong. The copy we read is the one whose sha256 is above; if the publisher has replaced the file since 2026-08-08, yours will not match ours, and that difference is the thing worth knowing.
What this record does not carry
derived Massachusetts declares 11 gaps, of which 8 are regulation this compilation does not carry.
8 gap(s) the record says carry regulation
These are regulation that exists and is not in here. They are printed in full, in the record's own words.
image
**PDF page 109 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
derived family: photograph/graphic/advertisement
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
image
**PDF page 110 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
derived family: photograph/graphic/advertisement
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
image
**PDF page 111 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
derived family: photograph/graphic/advertisement
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
image
**PDF page 112 is an imaged CMR leaf.** It draws one 1-bit DeviceGray image, srcsize (2550, 4198), over the whole 612x1008 media box -- 99.95% of the page -- and carries the regulation a SECOND time as an embedded-font text layer. This extraction reads the text layer only. The page was rendered at 4x and read against that layer line by line and they agree, but that comparison is a human reading of four pages and not a property of the file: the image is what the printed leaf shows, and where the two ever differ the image is the regulation.
derived family: photograph/graphic/advertisement
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
cross-references
**THE WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT ZONES ARE NOT IN THIS FILING AND FOUR OF THE SEVEN SEASONS DEPEND ON THEM.** The definition printed here says *'Zone or Zones means the Massachusetts wildlife management zones as described in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(o)'*, and this leaf is CMR pages 43-46: subsection (o) is on page 47 or later and the compliance filing does not reprint it. A hunter cannot tell whether their ground is in Zone 13 or 14 -- the two zones that carry the January winter season and the extra antlered deer -- from anything in this document. **And one season row carries an EMPTY `zones` field on purpose:** 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)4., the primitive firearms season, states no territorial scope at all in its own text, where (b)2. says 'In all zones' and (b)3. says 'throughout Massachusetts'. The empty field is the regulation's silence, reproduced; it is not a scope this extraction failed to read, and it is not a claim that the season is statewide.
derived family: cross-reference
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
cross-references
**THE ANTLERLESS BAG LIMIT IS A NUMBER THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT STATE.** 321 CMR 3.02(4)(d)2. sets it as *'the number of valid antlerless deer permits and attached deer tags that are possessed by such person'*, and how many permits are issued for a zone, and how they are drawn, is nowhere on these four pages. The limit published here is the rule; the operative figure is elsewhere.
derived family: cross-reference
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
cross-references
**THE FIRST PART OF THE DEFINITIONS IS ON THE PRECEDING LEAF.** These pages open mid-list, at *Baited Area*, under a running head reading '3.02: continued'. The opening of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(a) and any term alphabetically before *Baited Area* are on CMR page 42, which this filing does not reprint and which is not in this Register issue.
derived family: cross-reference
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
cross-references
**REGULATIONS THIS TEXT INCORPORATES AND DOES NOT REPRODUCE:** 321 CMR 3.01(3), which specifies the bow and arrow that may be used; 321 CMR 2.03, which governs coyote hunting and is the exception to the shotgun-shell possession rule; and M.G.L. c. 131, sections 4, 5, 14, 71 and 72, which are the enabling statute and the youth hunting law. Each is named in a published row and none is carried.
derived family: cross-reference
Who does have it
Not us. Massachusetts’s agency publishes the document this record was read from, and that document — not this page — is where the material above has to be chased:
Where the description above names some other document, register, office or telephone number, that naming is the record’s own and is printed in full above. Nothing here has followed it up for you, and nothing here has re-typed it.
3 further gap(s) the record says carry no regulation
declared by the record, which states these carry no regulation. They are published because the reason a thing was not read is part of the evidence.
scope
**THIS REGULATION STATES NO CALENDAR DATES AND NEITHER DOES THIS COMPILATION.** Every one of the seven open seasons is a formula relative to Thanksgiving, to Labor Day, or to a named weekday of a named month, and two of them are relative to the Youth Deer Hunt, which is itself a formula. The formulas are carried verbatim in `dates`. **No date is computed here**, because computing one would publish a fact the source does not state.
derived family: scope of the compilation
scope
**A FURTHER AMENDMENT TO 321 CMR 3.02(4) HAS BEEN HEARD AND NOT PUBLISHED.** Massachusetts Register no. 1567 (2026-02-13) carries the Division's hearing notice for amendments that would eliminate natural deer lures and scents, add a second day to the Youth Deer Hunt, open January deer hunting in Wildlife Management Zones 9, 10 and 11, and extend the archery season to the Monday following Youth Deer; the hearing was held 2/23/26. Every Register issue through no. 1579 of 2026-07-31 was opened and searched, and none of it has been promulgated. **The rows here are the rule in force and they are one Register issue away from being superseded.**
derived family: scope of the compilation
scope
**THE PUBLISHER CALLS THIS ELECTRONIC TEXT UNOFFICIAL**, in a line printed on all four pages and published here as a row: *'The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only. The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore.'* This is the registrar's own electronic edition of the registrar's own attested filing, and it is the best open source that exists for 321 CMR -- `www.sec.state.ma.us` returns 403 to robots.txt -- but the publisher's reservation travels with the record.
derived family: scope of the compilation
Coverage
100.0% of non-empty pypdf text lines across the four cited CMR pages -- prose, not table cells: 57 + 53 + 67 + 49
derived: this percentage is over the units named above, on the pages this record cites. It is not a percentage of the state's regulation. The gaps above are what a full percentage would have to count and cannot.
4 page(s) cited
109
110
111
112
2 page boundary/boundaries never inspected
p108 (beside cited p109) — neither page draws vertical rules — the Arkansas class, and this method cannot see prose, so the continuation check cannot fire. NOT a clean result: it was never inspected.
p113 (beside cited p112) — neither page draws vertical rules — the Arkansas class, and this method cannot see prose, so the continuation check cannot fire. NOT a clean result: it was never inspected.
21 library repair(s)
line: -1; was: t r; now: tr; basis: pdfplumber splits this token; pypdf reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: -1; was: pl anted; now: planted; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: whic h; now: which; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: tr ee,; now: tree,; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: Season .; now: Season.; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: d a; now: da; basis: pdfplumber splits this token; pypdf reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: -1; was: y s; now: ys; basis: pdfplumber splits this token; pypdf reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: -1; was: Limit :; now: Limit:; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: 31 st,; now: 31st,; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: da ys; now: days; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: i n; now: in; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: -1; was: Reporting :; now: Reporting:; basis: pypdf splits this token; the coordinate reading keeps it whole
line: 10; was: pl anted; now: planted; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 30; was: whic h; now: which; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 50; was: tr ee,; now: tree,; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 81; was: Season .; now: Season.; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 112; was: 31 st,; now: 31st,; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 113; was: da ys; now: days; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 152; was: i n; now: in; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 161; was: Limit :; now: Limit:; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
line: 211; was: Reporting :; now: Reporting:; basis: pypdf splits this token across a line break; pdfplumber reads it whole and the whole reading is kept
Any date that comes back is computed by you, in this app, for the year you picked. The source does not print it and this compilation does not assert it.
season (7)
Open season under 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)1.
Beginning the last Monday in October and ending the following Saturday, any three days of which may be selected by the Director
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
This formula could not be resolved. The verbatim rule above is the regulation, and nothing is computed from it here.
named_by_the_regulation
period_sentence
Beginning the last Monday in October and ending the following Saturday, any three days of which may be selected by the Director, there shall be a special season for paraplegics exclusively, who may hunt deer by means of a shotgun not larger than ten gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow.
1. Beginning the last Monday in October and ending the following Saturday, any three
days of which may be selected by the Director, there shall be a special season for
paraplegics exclusively, who may hunt deer by means of a shotgun not larger than ten
gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired
from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow. Such hunting
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
In all zones, beginning on the eighth Monday prior to Thanksgiving and ending on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, all days inclusive
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
This formula could not be resolved. The verbatim rule above is the regulation, and nothing is computed from it here.
named_by_the_regulation
period_sentence
In all zones, beginning on the eighth Monday prior to Thanksgiving and ending on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, all days inclusive, there shall be a special season for archers exclusively and during this period deer may be hunted only by means of a bow and arrow.
2. In all zones, beginning on the eighth Monday prior to Thanksgiving and ending on
the first Saturday after Thanksgiving, all days inclusive, there shall be a special season
for archers exclusively and during this period deer may be hunted only by means of a
bow and arrow.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Open season under 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)3. -- Shotgun Deer Season
Beginning the first Monday after Thanksgiving and ending the second Saturday thereafter, all days inclusive except Sunday
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
This formula could not be resolved. The verbatim rule above is the regulation, and nothing is computed from it here.
named_by_the_regulation
Shotgun Deer Season
period_sentence
Beginning the first Monday after Thanksgiving and ending the second Saturday thereafter, all days inclusive except Sunday, deer may be hunted throughout Massachusetts by means of a shotgun not larger than ten gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow.
3. Beginning the first Monday after Thanksgiving and ending the second Saturday
thereafter, all days inclusive except Sunday, deer may be hunted throughout
Massachusetts by means of a shotgun not larger than ten gauge, including shotguns with
a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired from the shoulder, .44 to .775
caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Beginning the third Monday after Thanksgiving and ending on December 31st, all days inclusive
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
compute this formula for 2026 yourself (user-computed, not published)
USER-COMPUTED, NOT PUBLISHED. The regulation states a formula, not a date. This date was computed by you, in this app, for a year you chose. The source does not print it, this compilation does not assert it, and it is not part of the record. Check the derivation steps against the verbatim text before relying on it.
2026-12-14 (user-computed, not published) → 2026-12-31 (user-computed, not published)
anchored on: Thanksgiving (the 4th Thursday of November)
Check the arithmetic — this is the whole derivation:
the source says, verbatim: "Beginning the third Monday after Thanksgiving and ending on December 31st, all days inclusive"
Thanksgiving 2026 = the 4th Thursday of November = Thursday November 26, 2026
the 3rd Monday after November 26, 2026 = Monday December 14, 2026
December 31, 2026 = Thursday December 31, 2026
The record still says what the record says: its resolution is formula_unresolved and it carries no dates for this row. Nothing above is part of it.
named_by_the_regulation
period_sentence
Beginning the third Monday after Thanksgiving and ending on December 31st, all days inclusive, deer may be hunted only by means of a primitive firearm using a single lead projectile, or by means of a bow and arrow.
Beginning the third Monday after Thanksgiving and ending on December 31 st, all
da
ys inclusive, deer may be hunted only by means of a primitive firearm using a single
lead projectile, or by means of a bow and arrow. Black powder (or synthetic substances
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Open season under 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)5. -- Youth Deer Hunt
On the fourth Saturday following Labor Day, which shall be the day of the Youth Deer Hunt
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
This formula could not be resolved. The verbatim rule above is the regulation, and nothing is computed from it here.
named_by_the_regulation
Youth Deer Hunt
period_sentence
On the fourth Saturday following Labor Day, which shall be the day of the Youth Deer Hunt, minors 12 through 17 years old who have been issued a Youth Deer Hunt Permit by the Director may hunt for deer by means of a shotgun, not larger than ten gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow.
5. On the fourth Saturday following Labor Day, which shall be the day of the Youth
Deer Hunt, minors 12 through 17 years old who have been issued a Youth Deer Hunt
Permit by the Director may hunt for deer by means of a shotgun, not larger than ten
gauge, including shotguns with a rifled bore, by means of a muzzle-loading firearm, fired
from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow. A Youth Deer
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Beginning on January 1st and ending on February 14th, inclusive
not machine-read — the verbatim text above is the regulation
named_by_the_regulation
period_sentence
Beginning on January 1st and ending on February 14th, inclusive, deer may be hunted in Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14 by means of a primitive firearm, or bow and arrow.
subsection
321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)6.
zones
Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14; Wildlife Management Zones 13 or 14
6. Beginning on January 1st and ending on February 14th, inclusive, deer may be hunted
i
n Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14 by means of a primitive firearm, or bow and
arrow. Hunters with a valid Winter Deer Permit may harvest an additional antlered or
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Beginning on the second Monday before the Youth Deer Hunt and ending on the Thursday before the Youth Deer Hunt in Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14
resolves from an anchor date each year — the verbatim rule above is the regulation
This formula could not be resolved. The verbatim rule above is the regulation, and nothing is computed from it here.
named_by_the_regulation
period_sentence
Beginning on the second Monday before the Youth Deer Hunt and ending on the Thursday before the Youth Deer Hunt in Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14, deer may be hunted only by means of a primitive firearm, or bow and arrow.
7. Beginning on the second Monday before the Youth Deer Hunt and ending on the
Thursday before the Youth Deer Hunt in Wildlife Management Zones 13 and 14, deer
may be hunted only by means of a primitive firearm, or bow and arrow.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
The publisher's own statement about this electronic text, printed at the foot of every cited page
value
The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only. The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore at http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm.
this record carries no per-row page and none of this row's source lines is unique to a single page, so the row cannot be narrowed; these are the 4 page(s) the record says the adapter read for the whole state
These are the pages the adapter read for the whole state. This row was not narrowed to a page of its own.
4 candidate page(s). Nothing here chooses between them:
The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only.
The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore at http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm.
The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only.
The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore at http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm.
The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only.
The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore at http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm.
The text of the regulations published in the electronic version of the Massachusetts Register is unofficial and for informational purposes only.
The official version is the printed copy which is available from the State Bookstore at http://www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/catidx.htm.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
. The open season shall be in the following periods:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
. The open season shall be in the following periods:
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
(e) Antlerless Deer Permit. A person shall not hunt, kill, or possess an antlerless deer in any
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow. Such hunting
shall be limited to those specified areas designated by the Director. During this special
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
During this special season, nothing shall prevent the otherwise lawful hunting of birds and mammals in accordance with established statutes and regulations.
shall be limited to those specified areas designated by the Director. During this special
season, nothing shall prevent the otherwise lawful hunting of birds and mammals in
accordance with established statutes and regulations.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
The primitive firearms period of the open season is intended to provide an opportunity to hunt deer in a manner similar to the way our forefathers hunted in the mid-1800's.
4. The primitive firearms period of the open season is intended to provide an
opportunity to hunt deer in a manner similar to the way our forefathers hunted in the
mid-1800's. The primary consideration is to limit the weapons to a type similar to those
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
mid-1800's. The primary consideration is to limit the weapons to a type similar to those
in common use during that period of history. Basically, that means a single shot, muzzle-
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
in common use during that period of history. Basically, that means a single shot, muzzle-
loading firearm with limited range and firepower. Secondarily, the hunter participating
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Secondarily, the hunter participating in this season should have a relative degree of solitude significantly different from the hunting pressure which is characteristic of the shotgun deer season.
loading firearm with limited range and firepower. Secondarily, the hunter participating
in this season should have a relative degree of solitude significantly different from the
hunting pressure which is characteristic of the shotgun deer season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Black powder (or synthetic substances such as "pyrodex" which are approved for competitive muzzle-loading meets by the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association) is the only powder to be used during this season.
lead projectile, or by means of a bow and arrow. Black powder (or synthetic substances
such as "pyrodex" which are approved for competitive muzzle-loading meets by the
National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association) is the only powder to be used during this
season. Primitive firearms may have smooth or rifled bores and shall not contain more
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
season. Primitive firearms may have smooth or rifled bores and shall not contain more
than one usable barrel. In the case of primitive firearms with double bore barrels, one
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
than one usable barrel. In the case of primitive firearms with double bore barrels, one
barrel shall be made inoperative by removal of the nipple and hammer. The caliber of
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
The caliber of a primitive firearm shall be not less than .44 nor more than .775 and only those primitive firearms having a barrel length of 18 inches or longer shall be permitted.
barrel shall be made inoperative by removal of the nipple and hammer. The caliber of
a primitive firearm shall be not less than .44 nor more than .775 and only those primitive
firearms having a barrel length of 18 inches or longer shall be permitted. A person shall
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
A person shall not, except during the paraplegic, Youth Deer Hunt and shotgun deer seasons, have in his or her possession a shotgun shell loaded with a rifled slug, single ball, buckshot of any size, BB shot or air rifle shot in any place where birds or mammals might be found, except on a skeet, trap or target range between sunrise and sunset, and except for the hunting of waterfowl, or coyote as provided in 321 CMR 2.03.
firearms having a barrel length of 18 inches or longer shall be permitted. A person shall
not, except during the paraplegic, Youth Deer Hunt and shotgun deer seasons, have in
his or her possession a shotgun shell loaded with a rifled slug, single ball, buckshot of
any size, BB shot or air rifle shot in any place where birds or mammals might be found,
except on a skeet, trap or target range between sunrise and sunset, and except for the
hunting of waterfowl, or coyote as provided in 321 CMR 2.03. During the primitive
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
During the primitive firearm season, nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4) shall prevent the otherwise lawful hunting of birds and mammals in accordance with established statutes and regulations.
hunting of waterfowl, or coyote as provided in 321 CMR 2.03. During the primitive
firearm season, nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4) shall prevent the otherwise lawful hunting
of birds and mammals in accordance with established statutes and regulations.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
A Youth Deer Hunt Permit must be obtained by the hunter allowing for the harvest of one antlered or antlerless deer in any Wildlife Management Zone, valid on Youth Deer Hunt Day and any day during open deer season provided the relevant season stamps have been obtained by either the holder of the Youth Deer Hunt Permit or accompanying adult.
from the shoulder, .44 to .775 caliber, or by means of a bow and arrow. A Youth Deer
Hunt Permit must be obtained by the hunter allowing for the harvest of one antlered or
antlerless deer in any Wildlife Management Zone, valid on Youth Deer Hunt Day and
any day during open deer season provided the relevant season stamps have been obtained
by either the holder of the Youth Deer Hunt Permit or accompanying adult. All minors
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
All minors 12 through 14 years old taking part in the Youth Deer Hunt are not required to possess a hunting license or sporting license, but shall possess a Youth Deer Hunt Permit, and be accompanied by a duly licensed adult as required by M. G.L. c. 131, § 14.
by either the holder of the Youth Deer Hunt Permit or accompanying adult. All minors
12 through 14 years old taking part in the Youth Deer Hunt are not required to possess
a hunting license or sporting license, but shall possess a Youth Deer Hunt Permit, and
be accompanied by a duly licensed adult as required by M. G.L. c. 131, § 14. All minors
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
All minors 15 through 17 years old taking part in the Youth Deer Hunt shall possess both a Massachusetts hunting or sporting license, and a Youth Deer Hunt Permit.
be accompanied by a duly licensed adult as required by M. G.L. c. 131, § 14. All minors
15 through 17 years old taking part in the Youth Deer Hunt shall possess both a
Massachusetts hunting or sporting license, and a Youth Deer Hunt Permit. All minors,
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
All minors, and the adults who accompany said minors during the Youth Deer Hunt, must comply with all applicable law and regulations of the Division, including the provisions of M.G.L. c. 131, §§ 14, 71, 72 and 321 CMR 3.02(4).
Massachusetts hunting or sporting license, and a Youth Deer Hunt Permit. All minors,
and the adults who accompany said minors during the Youth Deer Hunt, must comply
with all applicable law and regulations of the Division, including the provisions of
M.G.L. c. 131, §§ 14, 71, 72 and 321 CMR 3.02(4). During the Youth Deer Hunt, it is
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
M.G.L. c. 131, §§ 14, 71, 72 and 321 CMR 3.02(4). During the Youth Deer Hunt, it is
prohibited to hunt deer in an area where baiting has occurred up to ten days prior to the
Youth Deer Hunt season. Nothing in 321CMR 3.02(4) shall preclude the otherwise
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Nothing in 321CMR 3.02(4) shall preclude the otherwise lawful hunting of birds and mammals in accordance with the applicable law and regulations of the Division during the Youth Deer Hunt season.
Youth Deer Hunt season. Nothing in 321CMR 3.02(4) shall preclude the otherwise
lawful hunting of birds and mammals in accordance with the applicable law and
regulations of the Division during the Youth Deer Hunt season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Hunters with a valid Winter Deer Permit may harvest an additional antlered or antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Zones 13 or 14 during the winter season.
arrow. Hunters with a valid Winter Deer Permit may harvest an additional antlered or
antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Zones 13 or 14 during the winter season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
(c) A person shall not hunt a deer during any period of the season except between ½ hour
before sunrise and ½ hour after sunset Eastern Standard Time.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
A person shall not hunt, kill, or possess an antlerless deer in any county, area, or zone unless he or she possesses on their person a valid permit from the Director to do so.
(e) Antlerless Deer Permit. A person shall not hunt, kill, or possess an antlerless deer in any
county, area, or zone unless he or she possesses on their person a valid permit from the
Director to do so. However, nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(e) shall prevent a person from
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
However, nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(e) shall prevent a person from killing an antlerless deer during the exclusive season for paraplegics, when so authorized by the Director.
Director to do so. However, nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(e) shall prevent a person from
killing an antlerless deer during the exclusive season for paraplegics, when so authorized by
the Director.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
A person shall not make, set, or use any bait, decoy, torchlight or spotlight, trap, or other like device for the purpose of attracting, ensnaring, taking, injuring, or killing a deer, nor hunt by baiting or within any baited area, nor hunt, drive, worry, or disturb any deer with or by the aid of any noise-making device, provided that nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(f) shall be deemed to prohibit the use of scents or of deer antlers or replicas thereof or of grunt tubes as callers or attractants by persons otherwise lawfully hunting deer, and further provided that, notwithstanding the above prohibition, deer decoys may be used for hunting during archery only deer season.
(f) A person shall not make, set, or use any bait, decoy, torchlight or spotlight, trap, or other
like device for the purpose of attracting, ensnaring, taking, injuring, or killing a deer, nor
hunt by baiting or within any baited area, nor hunt, drive, worry, or disturb any deer with or
by the aid of any noise-making device, provided that nothing in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(f) shall
be deemed to prohibit the use of scents or of deer antlers or replicas thereof or of grunt tubes
as callers or attractants by persons otherwise lawfully hunting deer, and further provided that,
notwithstanding the above prohibition, deer decoys may be used for hunting during archery
only deer season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
No person, except on land owned or leased by him or her or except with the express written permission of the landowner or his or her authorized agent, shall construct, maintain, occupy, or use a permanent tree stand.
(g) No person, except on land owned or leased by him or her or except with the express
written permission of the landowner or his or her authorized agent, shall construct, maintain,
occupy, or use a permanent tree stand.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
A person killing a deer shall immediately, before transporting or removing the carcass in any manner from where it was killed, complete and attach to the carcass in a conspicuous manner a deer tag supplied with the person's hunting or sporting license or a legally authorized deer permit.
(h) A person killing a deer shall immediately, before transporting or removing the carcass
in any manner from where it was killed, complete and attach to the carcass in a conspicuous
manner a deer tag supplied with the person's hunting or sporting license or a legally
authorized deer permit. The deer tag when affixed to the deer shall be detached from the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
authorized deer permit. The deer tag when affixed to the deer shall be detached from the
license or permit. Said deer tag shall remain attached to the deer until the deer is presented
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Said deer tag shall remain attached to the deer until the deer is presented to a duly authorized person or deer checking station, at which time said deer tag shall be surrendered upon request to the official agent in charge thereof, or shall remain attached to the deer after being reported online.
license or permit. Said deer tag shall remain attached to the deer until the deer is presented
to a duly authorized person or deer checking station, at which time said deer tag shall be
surrendered upon request to the official agent in charge thereof, or shall remain attached to
the deer after being reported online. The provisions of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(h) relative to
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
the deer after being reported online. The provisions of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(h) relative to
tagging requirements shall not apply to a person lawfully hunting without a license.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Harvest Reporting: Within 48 hours after killing a deer its harvest shall be reported to the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife by one of the following means: 1. Checking Station: The entire carcass shall be presented by the person who killed the deer to a duly authorized person, or at a deer checking station designated by the Director for the purpose of being recorded and examined for research purposes and to have affixed thereto an official seal in such manner as prescribed by the Director; or 2. Online Reporting: The person who killed the deer shall access the Online system to report the harvest of the deer.
(j) Harvest Reporting: Within 48 hours after killing a deer its harvest shall be reported to
the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife by one of the following means:
1. Checking Station: The entire carcass shall be presented by the person who killed the
deer to a duly authorized person, or at a deer checking station designated by the Director
for the purpose of being recorded and examined for research purposes and to have affixed
thereto an official seal in such manner as prescribed by the Director; or
2. Online Reporting
: The person who killed the deer shall access the Online system to
report the harvest of the deer. The person shall receive an Online system confirmation
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
The person shall receive an Online system confirmation number, which shall be the official seal issued by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and record the confirmation number on the tag affixed to the deer as prescribed in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(h).
report the harvest of the deer. The person shall receive an Online system confirmation
number, which shall be the official seal issued by the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife,
and record the confirmation number on the tag affixed to the deer as prescribed in
321 CMR 3.02(4)(h).
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
3. The official seal shall remain affixed to the deer until the animal is skinned, cut up, or otherwise prepared for food purposes or for mounting by a taxidermist.
3. The official seal shall remain affixed to the deer until the animal is skinned, cut up,
or otherwise prepared for food purposes or for mounting by a taxidermist. The official
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
or otherwise prepared for food purposes or for mounting by a taxidermist. The official
seal is non-transferable and shall be valid only for the deer or carcass to which it is
applied.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
4. Any violation of the requirements of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(j) shall be heard in the
District Court for the location where the violation occurred.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
In all zones a person shall not kill nor possess more than two antlered deer, except a minor 12 through 17 years old with a valid Youth Deer Permit may kill and possess one additional antlered deer as specified in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)5., and a person with a valid Winter Deer Permit for exclusive use in Wildlife Management Zones 13 or 14 as specified in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)6. may kill and possess one additional antlered deer.
1. In all zones a person shall not kill nor possess more than two antlered deer, except
a minor 12 through 17 years old with a valid Youth Deer Permit may kill and possess one
additional antlered deer as specified in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)5., and a person with a valid
Winter Deer Permit for exclusive use in Wildlife Management Zones 13 or 14 as
specified in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)6. may kill and possess one additional antlered deer.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
In all zones a person's bag limit of antlerless deer shall be determined by the number of valid antlerless deer permits and attached deer tags that are possessed by such person. Such antlerless deer shall be in addition to the bag limit of antlered deer specified in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(d)1.
2. In all zones a person's bag limit of antlerless deer shall be determined by the number
of valid antlerless deer permits and attached deer tags that are possessed by such person.
Such antlerless deer shall be in addition to the bag limit of antlered deer specified in
321 CMR 3.02(4)(d)1.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
3. For the purposes of 321 CMR 3.02(4)(d), antlerless deer may be killed or possessed
only in accordance with 321 CMR 3.02(4)(e).
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means any area where baiting has taken place and such area shall remain a baited area for the period from ten days prior to the opening of the exclusive archery season as provided in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)2. to 12:00 P.M. on the day following the close of the exclusive primitive firearms season as provided in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)4.
Baited Area means any area where baiting has taken place and such area shall remain a
baited area for the period from ten days prior to the opening of the exclusive archery season
as provided in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)2. to 12:00 P.M. on the day following the close of the
exclusive primitive firearms season as provided in 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)4.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means the deliberate placing, depositing, distributing, or scattering of bait so as to constitute for deer a lure, attraction, or enticement to or on any area where hunters are attempting to take them. Food sources deposited by natural vegetation, from agricultural or gardening practices, or standing crops planted and left as wildlife food plots do not constitute baiting.
means the deliberate placing, depositing, distributing, or scattering of bait so as to
constitute for deer a lure, attraction, or enticement to or on any area where hunters are
attempting to take them. Food sources deposited by natural vegetation, from agricultural
or gardening practices, or standing crops pl anted and left as wildlife food plots do not
constitute baiting.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Barrel Length means that portion of a firearm through which shot is driven, guided, or
stabilized.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a bow and arrows of the type and design specified for the hunting of
deer, bear, and wild turkey pursuant to 321 CMR 3.01(3).
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means only a type of gunlock that ignites the charge by means of a spark produced by a spring-actuated external cock or hammer directly striking a percussion cap which is placed over a nipple which transmits the flame of the percussion cap to the powder.
means only a type of gunlock that ignites the charge by means of a spark produced
by a spring-actuated external cock or hammer directly striking a percussion cap which is
placed over a nipple which transmits the flame of the percussion cap to the powder.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means an artificial or natural replica or silhouette of a deer, including taxidermy mounts and preparations of a like nature as well as live deer held under restraint.
Decoy means an artificial or natural replica or silhouette of a deer, including taxidermy
mounts and preparations of a like nature as well as live deer held under restraint.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means the Director of the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife or their agent.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means only a type of gunlock that ignites the charge by means of a spark produced by a spring-actuated cock or hammer striking a piece of flint against a vertical, pivoted striking plate.
Flintlock means only a type of gunlock that ignites the charge by means of a spark produced
by a spring-actuated cock or hammer striking a piece of flint against a vertical, pivoted
striking plate.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a breath-powered, mouth-operated, non-electronic calling device which mimics deer vocalizations, the purpose of which is to attract deer pursuant to the lawful hunting thereof.
means a breath-powered, mouth-operated, non-electronic calling device which
mimics deer vocalizations, the purpose of whic h is to attract deer pursuant to the lawful
hunting thereof.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a round ball, Minie or Maxi bullet, or other spherical or conical projectile composed of lead, lead-antimony, or similar alloys. Notwithstanding the foregoing, saboted projectiles are lawful, regardless of the composition of the sabots
means a round ball, Minie or Maxi bullet, or other spherical or conical
projectile composed of lead, lead-antimony, or similar alloys. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, saboted projectiles are lawful, regardless of the composition of the sabots
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means, with respect to a primitive firearm, that all the powder, any wadding, and the projectile are placed in the muzzle and forced to the other end of the barrel with the aid of a ramrod.
or Muzzle-loading means, with respect to a primitive firearm, that
all the powder, any wadding, and the projectile are placed in the muzzle and forced to the
other end of the barrel with the aid of a ramrod.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a primitive firearm which contains a ball or shot in the muzzle and which, in the case of a flintlock, contains powder in the flash pan, and, in the case of a caplock, has a percussion cap on the nipple.
Loaded Primitive Firearm means a primitive firearm which contains a ball or shot in the
muzzle and which, in the case of a flintlock, contains powder in the flash pan, and, in the
case of a caplock, has a percussion cap on the nipple.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a Division of Fisheries and Wildlife licensing and game harvest reporting system accessible at the MassWildlife website that allows for automated licensing and game harvest reporting, including issuance of an official seal via the internet.
means a Division of Fisheries and Wildlife licensing and game harvest reporting
system accessible at the MassWildlife website that allows for automated licensing and game
harvest reporting, including issuance of an official seal via the internet.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means that type of hunting platform or structure (emplaced for any period of time) which is fastened to a tree by nails, bolts, wire, or other fasteners which intrude through the bark into the wood of the tree, or, which is fastened or erected in any manner and is emplaced for a period exceeding 30 days.
means that type of hunting platform or structure (emplaced for any
period of time) which is fastened to a tree by nails, bolts, wire, or other fasteners which
intrude through the bark into the wood of the tr ee, or, which is fastened or erected in any
manner and is emplaced for a period exceeding 30 days.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a flintlock or caplock firearm, either rifled or smoothbore, fired from the shoulder and loaded from the muzzle, and which has limited range and firepower.
Primitive Firearm means a flintlock or caplock firearm, either rifled or smoothbore, fired
from the shoulder and loaded from the muzzle, and which has limited range and firepower.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means an odoriferous substance, natural or artificial, which replicates or mimics the natural odor or bodily secretions of deer or other wild animals, the purpose of which is to attract deer pursuant to the hunting thereof or to mask the body odor or scent of humans hunting deer.
Scent means an odoriferous substance, natural or artificial, which replicates or mimics the
natural odor or bodily secretions of deer or other wild animals, the purpose of which is to
attract deer pursuant to the hunting thereof or to mask the body odor or scent of humans
hunting deer.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Shotgun Deer Season means that portion of the open season prescribed in 321 CMR
3.02(4)(b)3.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a primitive firearm which lacks one or more of the
components of a loaded primitive firearm.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a permit issued by the Director which allows the harvest of one additional antlered or antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Zone 13 or 14 during the winter season.
means a permit issued by the Director which allows the harvest of one
additional antlered or antlerless deer in Wildlife Management Zone 13 or 14 during the
winter season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means the season, which is to occur on the fourth Saturday following Labor Day, when minors 12 through 17 years old may hunt deer as provided in M.G.L. c. 131, § 14 and 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)5.
Youth Deer Hunt means the season, which is to occur on the fourth Saturday following Labor
Day, when minors 12 through 17 years old may hunt deer as provided in M.G.L. c. 131, § 14
and 321 CMR 3.02(4)(b)5.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
means a special permit issued by the Director exclusively to minors 12 through 17 years old which allows them to hunt for deer during the Youth Deer Hunt and harvest either an antlered or antlerless deer on Youth Deer Hunt Day or during any open deer season.
Youth Deer Hunt Permit means a special permit issued by the Director exclusively to minors
12 through 17 years old which allows them to hunt for deer during the Youth Deer Hunt and
harvest either an antlered or antlerless deer on Youth Deer Hunt Day or during any open deer
season.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
Zone or Zones means the Massachusetts wildlife management zones as described in
321 CMR 3.02(4)(o).
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth, Massachusetts Register no. 1571 (April 10, 2026), pp. 109-112 = 321 CMR pages 43-46: the text of 321 CMR 3.02(4), Hunting and Tagging of Deer, as filed by the Division of Fisheries & Wildlife under the Notice of Compliance at pp. 107-108 of the same issue and effective 12/19/25. Reproduced by the Massachusetts State Library, archives.lib.state.ma.us, handle 2452/886198.
