|
Landowner Issues
Posting: In Vermont there is a long tradition of property owners allowing access to their property for recreation and of respect for the private property on the part of those who are allowed to use it for hunting, fishing and other recreational pursuits. If land is not posted, you are not legally required to ask permission to walk, hunt or fish on private property. Nonetheless, asking permission shows appreciation and respect for the landowner. If you would like to restrict hunting, trapping and/or fishing, you can legally post your land so as not to allow these activities. Legally posted land must be recorded annually in the Town Clerk’s office. The requirements for such posting are found in 10 V.S.A. Section 5201 and are available from the Town Clerk.
Landowner Liability: Private land plays an important role in providing outdoor recreation opportunities for Vermonters. To encourage landowners to allow recreational users on their land, the Vermont Legislature has enacted strong legal protections for private landowners who allow use of their land. Thus, it is difficult for a landowner to be held liable for any injuries an individual may sustain while using private property unless the landowner has intentionally created a dangerous condition. For more information about landowner liability, request Public Recreation on Private Land: A Landowner’s Guide available from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation located at 103 South Main Street, Waterbury VT 05671-0601; phone 802-241-3693.
|
