O.C.G.A. § 27-2-4 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-4
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-4
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall issue a discounted hunting and fishing license, which shall entitle a resident to hunt and fish in this state without the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 , to each resident who is permanently and totally disabled. For purposes of this Code section, a permanent, total disability shall be a physical or mental impairment of a total and permanent nature which is certified as such by the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, the Social Security Administration, Medicaid, medicare, the Railroad Retirement System, or a unit of federal, state, or local government recognized by the board by rule or regulation; provided, however, that persons disabled because of a mental impairment shall be issued a discounted fishing license only. Persons issued a discounted license under disability provisions shall renew such licenses and recertify their eligibility for such licenses every three years; provided, however, that licenses in effect as of July 1, 1998, shall not require renewal. The fee for a discounted three-year license issued pursuant to this subsection shall be $9.00 for hunting or fishing only and $15.00 for hunting and fishing combined. The fee for a discounted annual license issued pursuant to this subsection shall be $3.00 for hunting or fishing only and $5.00 for hunting and fishing combined.

(a) The department shall issue a discounted hunting and fishing license, which shall entitle a resident to hunt and fish in this state without the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 , to each resident who is permanently and totally disabled. For purposes of this Code section, a permanent, total disability shall be a physical or mental impairment of a total and permanent nature which is certified as such by the United States Department of Veteran Affairs, the Social Security Administration, Medicaid, medicare, the Railroad Retirement System, or a unit of federal, state, or local government recognized by the board by rule or regulation; provided, however, that persons disabled because of a mental impairment shall be issued a discounted fishing license only. Persons issued a discounted license under disability provisions shall renew such licenses and recertify their eligibility for such licenses every three years; provided, however, that licenses in effect as of July 1, 1998, shall not require renewal. The fee for a discounted three-year license issued pursuant to this subsection shall be $9.00 for hunting or fishing only and $15.00 for hunting and fishing combined. The fee for a discounted annual license issued pursuant to this subsection shall be $3.00 for hunting or fishing only and $5.00 for hunting and fishing combined.

(b) Any resident who is totally blind and who applies to the department shall receive a lifetime honorary fishing license which shall entitle the holder thereof to fish in this state without the payment of any fee whatsoever.

(b) Any resident who is totally blind and who applies to the department shall receive a lifetime honorary fishing license which shall entitle the holder thereof to fish in this state without the payment of any fee whatsoever.

(c) Any person holding a valid honorary or discounted license pursuant to this Code section shall not be required to obtain the trout license and big game license otherwise required by Code Section 27-2-6 .

(c) Any person holding a valid honorary or discounted license pursuant to this Code section shall not be required to obtain the trout license and big game license otherwise required by Code Section 27-2-6 .

(d) All honorary and discounted hunting and fishing licenses are subject to all wildlife laws, rules, and regulations with the exception of the provisions requiring the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 for such licenses. Such honorary and discounted licenses may be revoked in accordance with this title. It shall be unlawful for any person who has an honorary or discounted hunting and fishing license to permit the use of same by any other person. It shall also be unlawful for any person who is not entitled to a discounted hunting and fishing license to use such a license or for any totally and permanently disabled person issued such a license to possess or use such license when the disability is no longer total or permanent. Licenses for the totally and permanently disabled may, upon a determination that the disability is no longer total or permanent, be revoked until such time as the disability is again total and permanent.

(d) All honorary and discounted hunting and fishing licenses are subject to all wildlife laws, rules, and regulations with the exception of the provisions requiring the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 for such licenses. Such honorary and discounted licenses may be revoked in accordance with this title. It shall be unlawful for any person who has an honorary or discounted hunting and fishing license to permit the use of same by any other person. It shall also be unlawful for any person who is not entitled to a discounted hunting and fishing license to use such a license or for any totally and permanently disabled person issued such a license to possess or use such license when the disability is no longer total or permanent. Licenses for the totally and permanently disabled may, upon a determination that the disability is no longer total or permanent, be revoked until such time as the disability is again total and permanent.

(e) The commissioner is authorized to make and enter into agreements from time to time with the proper authorities of various states of the United States regarding nonresident hunting and fishing license fees for persons 65 years of age or older so as to provide discounted hunting and fishing licenses to be issued to nonresidents 65 years of age or older where such practice is reciprocated for Georgia residents in that person's state of residence.

(e) The commissioner is authorized to make and enter into agreements from time to time with the proper authorities of various states of the United States regarding nonresident hunting and fishing license fees for persons 65 years of age or older so as to provide discounted hunting and fishing licenses to be issued to nonresidents 65 years of age or older where such practice is reciprocated for Georgia residents in that person's state of residence.

(f) Persons holding lifetime honorary licenses issued to persons 65 years of age or older prior to April 1, 1999, shall not be required to obtain a lifetime license pursuant to Code Section 27-2-3.1 , and such lifetime honorary license shall carry the same rights and privileges as a lifetime license issued pursuant to that Code section.

(f) Persons holding lifetime honorary licenses issued to persons 65 years of age or older prior to April 1, 1999, shall not be required to obtain a lifetime license pursuant to Code Section 27-2-3.1 , and such lifetime honorary license shall carry the same rights and privileges as a lifetime license issued pursuant to that Code section.

(g)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ returning veteran ” means a person who is discharged from active duty as a member of the regular or reserve component of the United States armed forces, the United States Coast Guard, the Georgia National Guard, or the Georgia Air National Guard and who was on ordered federal duty for a period of 90 days or longer. (2) The department shall issue an honorary hunting and fishing license to any returning veteran which shall entitle him or her to hunt and fish in this state without the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 for a period of one year following issuance. A returning veteran requesting such an honorary license shall provide proof of his or her discharge.

(g)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ returning veteran ” means a person who is discharged from active duty as a member of the regular or reserve component of the United States armed forces, the United States Coast Guard, the Georgia National Guard, or the Georgia Air National Guard and who was on ordered federal duty for a period of 90 days or longer.

(g)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ returning veteran ” means a person who is discharged from active duty as a member of the regular or reserve component of the United States armed forces, the United States Coast Guard, the Georgia National Guard, or the Georgia Air National Guard and who was on ordered federal duty for a period of 90 days or longer.

(2) The department shall issue an honorary hunting and fishing license to any returning veteran which shall entitle him or her to hunt and fish in this state without the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 for a period of one year following issuance. A returning veteran requesting such an honorary license shall provide proof of his or her discharge.

(2) The department shall issue an honorary hunting and fishing license to any returning veteran which shall entitle him or her to hunt and fish in this state without the payment of fees described in Code Section 27-2-23 for a period of one year following issuance. A returning veteran requesting such an honorary license shall provide proof of his or her discharge.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-4 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-4
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-4
Status: in_force

The board shall have the following powers and duties relative to this title:

(1) Establishment of the general policies to be followed by the department under this title;

(1) Establishment of the general policies to be followed by the department under this title;

(2) Promulgation of all rules and regulations necessary for the administration of this title including, but not limited to, rules and regulations to regulate the times, places, numbers, species, sizes, manner, methods, ways, means, and devices of killing, taking, capturing, transporting, storing, selling, using, and consuming wildlife and to carry out this title, and rules and regulations requiring daily, season, or annual use permits for the privilege of hunting and fishing in designated streams, lakes, or game management areas; and

(2) Promulgation of all rules and regulations necessary for the administration of this title including, but not limited to, rules and regulations to regulate the times, places, numbers, species, sizes, manner, methods, ways, means, and devices of killing, taking, capturing, transporting, storing, selling, using, and consuming wildlife and to carry out this title, and rules and regulations requiring daily, season, or annual use permits for the privilege of hunting and fishing in designated streams, lakes, or game management areas; and

(3) Promulgation of rules and regulations to protect wildlife, the public, and the natural resources of this state in the event of fire, flood, disease, pollution, or other emergency situation without complying with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.” Such rules and regulations shall have the force and effect of law upon promulgation by the board.

(3) Promulgation of rules and regulations to protect wildlife, the public, and the natural resources of this state in the event of fire, flood, disease, pollution, or other emergency situation without complying with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.” Such rules and regulations shall have the force and effect of law upon promulgation by the board.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-6 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-6
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-6
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to fish for or possess mountain trout or to fish in any waters designated as trout waters or trout streams pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 unless such person has in his or her possession a trout license in addition to his or her fishing license.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to fish for or possess mountain trout or to fish in any waters designated as trout waters or trout streams pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 unless such person has in his or her possession a trout license in addition to his or her fishing license.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt or possess big game unless such person has in his or her possession a big game license in addition to the required hunting license; provided, however, that all nonresidents, regardless of age, must possess a nonresident hunting/fishing license along with any harvest records required by law or regulation to hunt big game in this state.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt or possess big game unless such person has in his or her possession a big game license in addition to the required hunting license; provided, however, that all nonresidents, regardless of age, must possess a nonresident hunting/fishing license along with any harvest records required by law or regulation to hunt big game in this state.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt migratory game birds unless such person has in his or her possession a Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp in addition to the required hunting license; provided, however, that a Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp or a landowner Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp shall be required for any resident of this state to hunt migratory birds on premises owned by him or her or his or her immediate family.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt migratory game birds unless such person has in his or her possession a Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp in addition to the required hunting license; provided, however, that a Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp or a landowner Georgia waterfowl and migratory bird stamp shall be required for any resident of this state to hunt migratory birds on premises owned by him or her or his or her immediate family.

(d) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt alligators unless such person has in his or her possession a valid hunting license. A resident or nonresident alligator harvest permit shall be required to harvest an alligator. Such permit shall be free to lifetime license holders if selected as part of any department quota or lottery.

(d) It shall be unlawful for any person who has attained the age of 16 years to hunt alligators unless such person has in his or her possession a valid hunting license. A resident or nonresident alligator harvest permit shall be required to harvest an alligator. Such permit shall be free to lifetime license holders if selected as part of any department quota or lottery.

(e) No resident of this state shall be required to obtain a trout license or big game license to hunt, fish, or trap on premises owned by him or her or his or her immediate family.

(e) No resident of this state shall be required to obtain a trout license or big game license to hunt, fish, or trap on premises owned by him or her or his or her immediate family.

(f) Any visitor to a state park, whether a resident or nonresident of Georgia, shall not be required to purchase a trout license when fishing in impounded waters on lands owned or leased by the department.

(f) Any visitor to a state park, whether a resident or nonresident of Georgia, shall not be required to purchase a trout license when fishing in impounded waters on lands owned or leased by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-234 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-234
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-234
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “adjoining state” means any of the following states: Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term “adjoining state” means any of the following states: Alabama, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

(b) The department is authorized to make and enter into agreements, from time to time, with the proper authorities of any adjoining state whereby: (1) A citizen of the State of Georgia who has obtained an honorary fishing license as a blind person pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-4 may fish within such adjoining state without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in that state; and (2) A citizen of the adjoining state who has an honorary fishing license as a blind person issued by that state may fish within the State of Georgia without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in this state.

(b) The department is authorized to make and enter into agreements, from time to time, with the proper authorities of any adjoining state whereby:

(1) A citizen of the State of Georgia who has obtained an honorary fishing license as a blind person pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-4 may fish within such adjoining state without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in that state; and

(1) A citizen of the State of Georgia who has obtained an honorary fishing license as a blind person pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-4 may fish within such adjoining state without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in that state; and

(2) A citizen of the adjoining state who has an honorary fishing license as a blind person issued by that state may fish within the State of Georgia without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in this state.

(2) A citizen of the adjoining state who has an honorary fishing license as a blind person issued by that state may fish within the State of Georgia without the necessity of purchasing a nonresident fishing license in this state.

(c) An agreement entered into with an adjoining state pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section pertains only to reciprocity of fishing licenses and all other fishing laws and regulations of the State of Georgia shall apply to any nonresident fishing in Georgia waters pursuant to the authority of any such agreement.

(c) An agreement entered into with an adjoining state pursuant to the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section pertains only to reciprocity of fishing licenses and all other fishing laws and regulations of the State of Georgia shall apply to any nonresident fishing in Georgia waters pursuant to the authority of any such agreement.

(d) The commissioner is authorized to enter into agreements from time to time with the proper authorities of any of the adjoining states whereby a valid fishing license issued by the State of Georgia will be accepted and honored as and in lieu of a fishing license for adjoining states so agreeing on the banks and in the waters of the lakes, rivers, and streams lying between the State of Georgia and such adjoining state or partly within the boundaries of both the State of Georgia and that adjoining state. In turn, valid licenses issued by said adjoining state shall be accepted and honored as and in lieu of a Georgia fishing license on the banks and in the waters of such lakes, rivers, and streams. Notwithstanding provisions of this title to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to take game fish except channel catfish, flathead catfish, American shad, and hickory shad from waters of the lakes, rivers, and streams lying between the State of Georgia and such adjoining state or partly within the boundaries of Georgia and that adjoining state. The numbers of those game fish which may be lawfully taken from such waters are limited by the commissioner in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife management. Those limits allow one to 50 fish of each species to be taken but no more than a total of 50 fish of all species.

(d) The commissioner is authorized to enter into agreements from time to time with the proper authorities of any of the adjoining states whereby a valid fishing license issued by the State of Georgia will be accepted and honored as and in lieu of a fishing license for adjoining states so agreeing on the banks and in the waters of the lakes, rivers, and streams lying between the State of Georgia and such adjoining state or partly within the boundaries of both the State of Georgia and that adjoining state. In turn, valid licenses issued by said adjoining state shall be accepted and honored as and in lieu of a Georgia fishing license on the banks and in the waters of such lakes, rivers, and streams. Notwithstanding provisions of this title to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to take game fish except channel catfish, flathead catfish, American shad, and hickory shad from waters of the lakes, rivers, and streams lying between the State of Georgia and such adjoining state or partly within the boundaries of Georgia and that adjoining state. The numbers of those game fish which may be lawfully taken from such waters are limited by the commissioner in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife management. Those limits allow one to 50 fish of each species to be taken but no more than a total of 50 fish of all species.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-1-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-1-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-1.1
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person on any wildlife management area owned or operated by the department:

(1) To possess a firearm other than a handgun, as such term is defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 , during a closed hunting season for that area unless such firearm is unloaded and stored in a motor vehicle so as not to be readily accessible or to possess a handgun during a closed hunting season for that area unless such person is a lawful weapons carrier as defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 ;

(1) To possess a firearm other than a handgun, as such term is defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 , during a closed hunting season for that area unless such firearm is unloaded and stored in a motor vehicle so as not to be readily accessible or to possess a handgun during a closed hunting season for that area unless such person is a lawful weapons carrier as defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 ;

(2) To possess a loaded firearm other than a handgun, as such term is defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 , in a motor vehicle during a legal open hunting season for that area or to possess a loaded handgun in a motor vehicle during a legal open hunting season for that area unless such person is a lawful weapons carrier as defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 ;

(2) To possess a loaded firearm other than a handgun, as such term is defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 , in a motor vehicle during a legal open hunting season for that area or to possess a loaded handgun in a motor vehicle during a legal open hunting season for that area unless such person is a lawful weapons carrier as defined in Code Section 16-11-125.1 ;

(3) To be under the influence of drugs, intoxicating liquors, beers, or wines. The determination of whether any person is under the influence of drugs or intoxicating liquors, beers, or wines may be made in accordance with Code Section 27-3-7 ;

(3) To be under the influence of drugs, intoxicating liquors, beers, or wines. The determination of whether any person is under the influence of drugs or intoxicating liquors, beers, or wines may be made in accordance with Code Section 27-3-7 ;

(4) To hunt within 50 yards of any road which receives regular maintenance for the purpose of public vehicular access;

(4) To hunt within 50 yards of any road which receives regular maintenance for the purpose of public vehicular access;

(5) To target practice, except where an authorized shooting range is made available by the department, and then only in a manner consistent with the rules for shooting ranges promulgated by the board;

(5) To target practice, except where an authorized shooting range is made available by the department, and then only in a manner consistent with the rules for shooting ranges promulgated by the board;

(6) To drive a vehicle around a closed gate, cable, sign, or other structure or device intended to prevent vehicular access to a road entering onto or within such an area;

(6) To drive a vehicle around a closed gate, cable, sign, or other structure or device intended to prevent vehicular access to a road entering onto or within such an area;

(7) To hunt within any posted safety zone;

(7) To hunt within any posted safety zone;

(8) To camp upon or drive a motor vehicle over any permanent pasture or area planted in crops;

(8) To camp upon or drive a motor vehicle over any permanent pasture or area planted in crops;

(9) While hunting bears in any such area opened to bear hunting, to kill a female bear with a cub or cubs or to kill a cub weighing less than 75 pounds;

(9) While hunting bears in any such area opened to bear hunting, to kill a female bear with a cub or cubs or to kill a cub weighing less than 75 pounds;

(10) To fail to report if he or she kills a deer, bear, or turkey in the manner specified by the rules of the department for that wildlife management area on the date killed to the state game and fish checking station on the area;

(10) To fail to report if he or she kills a deer, bear, or turkey in the manner specified by the rules of the department for that wildlife management area on the date killed to the state game and fish checking station on the area;

(11) To construct any tree stand or to hunt from any tree stand except a portable or natural tree stand; or

(11) To construct any tree stand or to hunt from any tree stand except a portable or natural tree stand; or

(12) To trap except with a special trapping permit issued by the department.

(12) To trap except with a special trapping permit issued by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-181 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-181
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-181
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this article, the term “ fertility control ” means any action that results in contraception, contragestation, or sterilization or produces a temporary or permanent state of infertility.

(a) As used in this article, the term “ fertility control ” means any action that results in contraception, contragestation, or sterilization or produces a temporary or permanent state of infertility.

(b) It shall be unlawful to apply any fertility control to any wildlife, except in accordance with a wildlife fertility control permit issued under the provisions of this article and any rules or regulations adopted by the board.

(b) It shall be unlawful to apply any fertility control to any wildlife, except in accordance with a wildlife fertility control permit issued under the provisions of this article and any rules or regulations adopted by the board.

(c) Nothing in this article shall prohibit or apply to the medically necessary treatment of sick or injured wildlife by properly licensed veterinarians. This article shall not limit employees of the department in the performance of their official duties.

(c) Nothing in this article shall prohibit or apply to the medically necessary treatment of sick or injured wildlife by properly licensed veterinarians. This article shall not limit employees of the department in the performance of their official duties.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-192 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-192
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-192
Status: in_force

(a) Unless authorized by the department, it shall be unlawful for any person to take or possess for commercial purposes any shellfish taken from the salt waters of this state except by hand or hand-held implement. The department may authorize the use of other equipment for taking shellfish for commercial purposes upon such conditions as the department determines are in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management. It shall be unlawful to take or possess shellfish taken by such other equipment unless prior written approval has been obtained from the department and unless a copy of the written permission is on the person of the authorized harvester and unless the conditions of the written authorization are being met. Such other equipment includes, but is not limited to, rock dredges, escalator dredges, hydraulic dredges, mechanical tongs, patent tongs, and any power drawn or driven device.

(a) Unless authorized by the department, it shall be unlawful for any person to take or possess for commercial purposes any shellfish taken from the salt waters of this state except by hand or hand-held implement. The department may authorize the use of other equipment for taking shellfish for commercial purposes upon such conditions as the department determines are in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management. It shall be unlawful to take or possess shellfish taken by such other equipment unless prior written approval has been obtained from the department and unless a copy of the written permission is on the person of the authorized harvester and unless the conditions of the written authorization are being met. Such other equipment includes, but is not limited to, rock dredges, escalator dredges, hydraulic dredges, mechanical tongs, patent tongs, and any power drawn or driven device.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to take or possess shellfish for recreational purposes using any instrument other than by hand or hand-held implement.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to take or possess shellfish for recreational purposes using any instrument other than by hand or hand-held implement.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-71 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-71
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-71
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except with a valid commercial fishing license as prescribed in Code Section 27-2-23 and a valid commercial fishing boat license as prescribed in Code Section 27-2-8 . In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the commissioner may authorize any person so licensed to fish for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except with a valid commercial fishing license as prescribed in Code Section 27-2-23 and a valid commercial fishing boat license as prescribed in Code Section 27-2-8 . In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the commissioner may authorize any person so licensed to fish for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs.

(b) In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, and horseshoe crabs.

(b) In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, and horseshoe crabs.

(c) It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except in compliance with the rules and regulations of the board pertaining to the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for such species.

(c) It shall be unlawful to fish commercially for shad, American eels, catfish in salt water, or horseshoe crabs except in compliance with the rules and regulations of the board pertaining to the seasons, days, and places; methods of fishing and disposition; and size, creel, and possession limits for fishing commercially for such species.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-202 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-202
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-202
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for a master harvester to engage in shellfish mariculture activities without first obtaining a shellfish mariculture permit from the department. A detailed mariculture operational plan must be approved by the department prior to any shellfish mariculture permit being issued. An operational plan shall include the species to be farmed, types of gear, amounts, locations, sources and types of shellfish seed including genetic strains, a storm mitigation plan, a wildlife interaction mitigation plan, and any other information required by the department.

(a) It shall be unlawful for a master harvester to engage in shellfish mariculture activities without first obtaining a shellfish mariculture permit from the department. A detailed mariculture operational plan must be approved by the department prior to any shellfish mariculture permit being issued. An operational plan shall include the species to be farmed, types of gear, amounts, locations, sources and types of shellfish seed including genetic strains, a storm mitigation plan, a wildlife interaction mitigation plan, and any other information required by the department.

(b) Permits may be conditioned by the department to include requirements related to shellfish production, mariculture operations, public rights of access and nonconflicting uses of permitted areas, and correction of environmental degradation resulting from the permitted activity.

(b) Permits may be conditioned by the department to include requirements related to shellfish production, mariculture operations, public rights of access and nonconflicting uses of permitted areas, and correction of environmental degradation resulting from the permitted activity.

(c) Shellfish mariculture activities on a subtidal water bottoms lease shall require a performance bond provided to the director by a master harvester to ensure compliance with the procedures and standards contained in this part. Such performance bond shall be in the amount of $20,000.00 and conditioned upon faithful compliance with the conditions and terms of this part. Such performance bond shall be placed on file with the director. The bond shall be made payable to the director and issued by an insurance company authorized to issue such bonds in this state. If any party is aggrieved or adversely affected by the master harvester's failure to comply with the requirements of this article, the director may commence and maintain an action against the principal and surety on the bond.

(c) Shellfish mariculture activities on a subtidal water bottoms lease shall require a performance bond provided to the director by a master harvester to ensure compliance with the procedures and standards contained in this part. Such performance bond shall be in the amount of $20,000.00 and conditioned upon faithful compliance with the conditions and terms of this part. Such performance bond shall be placed on file with the director. The bond shall be made payable to the director and issued by an insurance company authorized to issue such bonds in this state. If any party is aggrieved or adversely affected by the master harvester's failure to comply with the requirements of this article, the director may commence and maintain an action against the principal and surety on the bond.

(d) The department shall not issue any new leases or permits or renew any leases or permits unless the leasing application is accompanied by a letter from the director or his or her designee stating that the applicant's bond is acceptable. Failure to provide an acceptable bond shall constitute grounds for denial of the issuance or renewal of a lease or permit.

(d) The department shall not issue any new leases or permits or renew any leases or permits unless the leasing application is accompanied by a letter from the director or his or her designee stating that the applicant's bond is acceptable. Failure to provide an acceptable bond shall constitute grounds for denial of the issuance or renewal of a lease or permit.

(e) Upon a determination by the director that a master harvester, or an agent or employee responsible for harvesting, has failed to meet the standards as set out in this part, the director may, after written notice of such failure to the master harvester or the agent or employee responsible for harvesting: (1) Forfeit or draw that amount of such bond that the director determines necessary to correct the violations; (2) Expend such amount for such purposes; (3) Enter into contracts for such purposes; or (4) Require the replacement of that amount of such bond forfeited or drawn upon.

(e) Upon a determination by the director that a master harvester, or an agent or employee responsible for harvesting, has failed to meet the standards as set out in this part, the director may, after written notice of such failure to the master harvester or the agent or employee responsible for harvesting:

(1) Forfeit or draw that amount of such bond that the director determines necessary to correct the violations;

(1) Forfeit or draw that amount of such bond that the director determines necessary to correct the violations;

(2) Expend such amount for such purposes;

(2) Expend such amount for such purposes;

(3) Enter into contracts for such purposes; or

(3) Enter into contracts for such purposes; or

(4) Require the replacement of that amount of such bond forfeited or drawn upon.

(4) Require the replacement of that amount of such bond forfeited or drawn upon.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-51 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-51
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-51
Status: in_force

(a) The board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations as may be appropriate based on sound wildlife management principles designating all or any portion of any watershed, stream, or lake as trout waters and establishing seasons, times, and methods of fishing in such waters.

(a) The board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations as may be appropriate based on sound wildlife management principles designating all or any portion of any watershed, stream, or lake as trout waters and establishing seasons, times, and methods of fishing in such waters.

(b) It shall be unlawful to fish in any waters which the board designates as trout waters except during such times and in such methods as the board establishes by rule or regulation.

(b) It shall be unlawful to fish in any waters which the board designates as trout waters except during such times and in such methods as the board establishes by rule or regulation.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-13-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-13-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-13.1
Status: in_force

(a)(1) For purposes of this subsection, the term “ film production ” means the creation of film, video, or digital projects in this state, including, but not limited to, the creation of feature films, documentaries, series, pilots, movies for television, advertisements, music videos, and interactive entertainment. (2) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess any wildlife in captivity for film production purposes or to otherwise provide wildlife for use in film production without first procuring a film production wildlife permit as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . No wildlife may be possessed by the applicant prior to a film production wildlife permit being granted by the department, unless such wildlife was legally possessed by the applicant prior to the grant of the permit. The department may impose conditions on such permit requiring adequate sanitation facilities, housing, and feed for the animals and insuring the safety of the public in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. (3) A permit issued pursuant to this subsection shall authorize the permit holder to transport, possess, or transfer wildlife for any permitted purpose related to film production; provided, however, that possession of a permit shall not exempt the holder from any other local, state, or federal requirements.

(a)(1) For purposes of this subsection, the term “ film production ” means the creation of film, video, or digital projects in this state, including, but not limited to, the creation of feature films, documentaries, series, pilots, movies for television, advertisements, music videos, and interactive entertainment.

(a)(1) For purposes of this subsection, the term “ film production ” means the creation of film, video, or digital projects in this state, including, but not limited to, the creation of feature films, documentaries, series, pilots, movies for television, advertisements, music videos, and interactive entertainment.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess any wildlife in captivity for film production purposes or to otherwise provide wildlife for use in film production without first procuring a film production wildlife permit as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . No wildlife may be possessed by the applicant prior to a film production wildlife permit being granted by the department, unless such wildlife was legally possessed by the applicant prior to the grant of the permit. The department may impose conditions on such permit requiring adequate sanitation facilities, housing, and feed for the animals and insuring the safety of the public in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess any wildlife in captivity for film production purposes or to otherwise provide wildlife for use in film production without first procuring a film production wildlife permit as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . No wildlife may be possessed by the applicant prior to a film production wildlife permit being granted by the department, unless such wildlife was legally possessed by the applicant prior to the grant of the permit. The department may impose conditions on such permit requiring adequate sanitation facilities, housing, and feed for the animals and insuring the safety of the public in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board.

(3) A permit issued pursuant to this subsection shall authorize the permit holder to transport, possess, or transfer wildlife for any permitted purpose related to film production; provided, however, that possession of a permit shall not exempt the holder from any other local, state, or federal requirements.

(3) A permit issued pursuant to this subsection shall authorize the permit holder to transport, possess, or transfer wildlife for any permitted purpose related to film production; provided, however, that possession of a permit shall not exempt the holder from any other local, state, or federal requirements.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person holding any wildlife in captivity pursuant to a permit issued in accordance with this Code section to release the wildlife from captivity or to house or maintain the wildlife in such a manner as to pose a reasonable possibility that the wildlife may be released accidentally or escape from captivity.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person holding any wildlife in captivity pursuant to a permit issued in accordance with this Code section to release the wildlife from captivity or to house or maintain the wildlife in such a manner as to pose a reasonable possibility that the wildlife may be released accidentally or escape from captivity.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-13 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-13
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-13
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess any wildlife in captivity for the purpose of display or exhibition to the public without first procuring a valid wildlife exhibition permit as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . No such permit shall be issued by the department except where the exhibition or display is solely for educational purposes. The department may impose conditions on such permit requiring adequate sanitation facilities, housing, and feed for the animals and insuring the safety of the public in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. Exhibitions of wildlife by educational institutions; state, city, county, or municipal zoos; or transient circuses shall not be required to procure a wildlife exhibition permit, provided that such exhibitors must comply with all regulations of the board relating to sanitation, housing, feed, and public safety. Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to require a permit to exhibit or display fish.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess any wildlife in captivity for the purpose of display or exhibition to the public without first procuring a valid wildlife exhibition permit as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . No such permit shall be issued by the department except where the exhibition or display is solely for educational purposes. The department may impose conditions on such permit requiring adequate sanitation facilities, housing, and feed for the animals and insuring the safety of the public in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. Exhibitions of wildlife by educational institutions; state, city, county, or municipal zoos; or transient circuses shall not be required to procure a wildlife exhibition permit, provided that such exhibitors must comply with all regulations of the board relating to sanitation, housing, feed, and public safety. Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to require a permit to exhibit or display fish.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person holding any wildlife in captivity pursuant to a wildlife exhibition permit to release the wildlife from captivity or to house or maintain the wildlife in such a manner as to pose a reasonable possibility that the wildlife may be released accidentally or escape from captivity.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person holding any wildlife in captivity pursuant to a wildlife exhibition permit to release the wildlife from captivity or to house or maintain the wildlife in such a manner as to pose a reasonable possibility that the wildlife may be released accidentally or escape from captivity.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-5 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-5
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-5
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person born on or after January 1, 1961, to procure a hunting license or to hunt by means of weapons in this state unless that person has been issued a certificate or other evidence the department deems acceptable which indicates satisfactory completion of a hunter education course as prescribed by the board. Persons ages 12 through 25 shall provide such certificate or other evidence to the issuing agent at the time of purchase of a hunting license. All persons required by this subsection to complete a hunter education course, by buying such license, by receiving a temporary license identification number, or by receiving a license from a telephone license agent, Internet license agent, or other vendor, shall certify by such action their compliance with this subsection.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person born on or after January 1, 1961, to procure a hunting license or to hunt by means of weapons in this state unless that person has been issued a certificate or other evidence the department deems acceptable which indicates satisfactory completion of a hunter education course as prescribed by the board. Persons ages 12 through 25 shall provide such certificate or other evidence to the issuing agent at the time of purchase of a hunting license. All persons required by this subsection to complete a hunter education course, by buying such license, by receiving a temporary license identification number, or by receiving a license from a telephone license agent, Internet license agent, or other vendor, shall certify by such action their compliance with this subsection.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person authorized to issue hunting licenses in this state to issue a hunting license to any person age 16 through 25 unless that license agent shall have been provided with a certificate showing the license applicant has satisfactorily completed a hunter education course as prescribed by the board, or to any other person born on or after January 1, 1961, unless such person provides such other evidence of completion of a hunter education course as the department deems acceptable. Internet and telephone license agents may accept a valid hunter education certificate number as fulfillment of this requirement.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person authorized to issue hunting licenses in this state to issue a hunting license to any person age 16 through 25 unless that license agent shall have been provided with a certificate showing the license applicant has satisfactorily completed a hunter education course as prescribed by the board, or to any other person born on or after January 1, 1961, unless such person provides such other evidence of completion of a hunter education course as the department deems acceptable. Internet and telephone license agents may accept a valid hunter education certificate number as fulfillment of this requirement.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person age 16 through 25 who is not required by law to obtain a hunting license to hunt in this state unless that person carries on his or her person while hunting a certificate attesting to that person's satisfactory completion of a hunter education course as prescribed by the board. Such person shall present his or her certificate to a game warden or deputy game warden for inspection upon demand.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person age 16 through 25 who is not required by law to obtain a hunting license to hunt in this state unless that person carries on his or her person while hunting a certificate attesting to that person's satisfactory completion of a hunter education course as prescribed by the board. Such person shall present his or her certificate to a game warden or deputy game warden for inspection upon demand.

(d) Any person who is age 12 through 15 shall satisfactorily complete a hunter education course as a prerequisite to hunting with a weapon in this state. It shall be unlawful for any adult to permit his or her child or ward age 12 through 15 to hunt with a weapon unless the child has a certificate attesting to his or her satisfactory completion of such course on his or her person; provided, however, that a hunter education course is not required for a child less than 16 years of age who is hunting under adult supervision by a licensed adult hunter.

(d) Any person who is age 12 through 15 shall satisfactorily complete a hunter education course as a prerequisite to hunting with a weapon in this state. It shall be unlawful for any adult to permit his or her child or ward age 12 through 15 to hunt with a weapon unless the child has a certificate attesting to his or her satisfactory completion of such course on his or her person; provided, however, that a hunter education course is not required for a child less than 16 years of age who is hunting under adult supervision by a licensed adult hunter.

(e) Any person applying for an annual or multiyear nonresident hunting/fishing license may provide a certificate of completion or such other evidence of completion the department deems acceptable of the official hunter education or hunter safety course of such person's state of residence if that course shall have been approved by the department. No one applying for an outdoor passport, a hunting license of less than one year in duration, or a lifetime license shall be required to exhibit such a certificate or to complete a hunter education course in order to obtain the license. Persons holding a lifetime license shall complete an official hunter education or hunter safety course and display proof of completion as specified by the department in order to hunt unless otherwise exempted by this title.

(e) Any person applying for an annual or multiyear nonresident hunting/fishing license may provide a certificate of completion or such other evidence of completion the department deems acceptable of the official hunter education or hunter safety course of such person's state of residence if that course shall have been approved by the department. No one applying for an outdoor passport, a hunting license of less than one year in duration, or a lifetime license shall be required to exhibit such a certificate or to complete a hunter education course in order to obtain the license. Persons holding a lifetime license shall complete an official hunter education or hunter safety course and display proof of completion as specified by the department in order to hunt unless otherwise exempted by this title.

(f) By rule or regulation, the board shall prescribe a course of instruction in competency and safety in hunting and in the handling of weapons. The board shall also prescribe procedures whereby competent residents of this state shall be certified as hunter education instructors. The board may provide, by rule or regulation, for charging reasonable fees for the issuance by the department of duplicate certificates of completion of a hunter education course and for hunter education courses in order to defray the expenses of conducting such courses. Any such fees shall be deemed as “other income” of the department for purposes of subsection (c) of Code Section 27-1-13 .

(f) By rule or regulation, the board shall prescribe a course of instruction in competency and safety in hunting and in the handling of weapons. The board shall also prescribe procedures whereby competent residents of this state shall be certified as hunter education instructors. The board may provide, by rule or regulation, for charging reasonable fees for the issuance by the department of duplicate certificates of completion of a hunter education course and for hunter education courses in order to defray the expenses of conducting such courses. Any such fees shall be deemed as “other income” of the department for purposes of subsection (c) of Code Section 27-1-13 .

(g) Any person violating any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor; provided, however, that this subsection shall not apply to any person under the age of 16.

(g) Any person violating any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor; provided, however, that this subsection shall not apply to any person under the age of 16.

(h) The requirements of subsections (c) and (d) of this Code section shall not apply to any person hunting on his or her own land or that of his or her parents or legal guardian or to persons permitting a child or ward aged 12 through 15 years to hunt on the parent's or guardian's own land.

(h) The requirements of subsections (c) and (d) of this Code section shall not apply to any person hunting on his or her own land or that of his or her parents or legal guardian or to persons permitting a child or ward aged 12 through 15 years to hunt on the parent's or guardian's own land.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-130 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-130
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-130
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Endangered Wildlife Act of 1973.”
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-35 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-35
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-35
Status: in_force

(a) The jurisdiction of the probate courts of the several counties of this state is enlarged and extended so that probate courts, acting by and through the judge or presiding officer, shall have the right and power to receive pleas of guilty and impose sentence upon defendants violating the provisions of this title.

(a) The jurisdiction of the probate courts of the several counties of this state is enlarged and extended so that probate courts, acting by and through the judge or presiding officer, shall have the right and power to receive pleas of guilty and impose sentence upon defendants violating the provisions of this title.

(b) When a person is arrested for any violation of the wildlife laws, the arresting officer may, at his discretion, choose to issue to the offender a summons to appear before a court of jurisdiction. Every such summons shall show: (1) That it is issued by authority of the department; (2) The name of the person summoned or, if the person to be summoned refuses to give his name or the officer serving the summons believes the name given is false or if the officer is for other cause unable to ascertain the correct name of the person to be summoned, a fictitious name plainly identified as such; (3) The offense with which the person being summoned is charged and the date and location of the alleged offense; (4) The location of the court and the day and hour at which he is summoned to appear; (5) That failure to so appear is a violation of Georgia laws and subject to prosecution; (6) The date the summons is served; and (7) The name and official designation of the officer serving it.

(b) When a person is arrested for any violation of the wildlife laws, the arresting officer may, at his discretion, choose to issue to the offender a summons to appear before a court of jurisdiction. Every such summons shall show:

(1) That it is issued by authority of the department;

(1) That it is issued by authority of the department;

(2) The name of the person summoned or, if the person to be summoned refuses to give his name or the officer serving the summons believes the name given is false or if the officer is for other cause unable to ascertain the correct name of the person to be summoned, a fictitious name plainly identified as such;

(2) The name of the person summoned or, if the person to be summoned refuses to give his name or the officer serving the summons believes the name given is false or if the officer is for other cause unable to ascertain the correct name of the person to be summoned, a fictitious name plainly identified as such;

(3) The offense with which the person being summoned is charged and the date and location of the alleged offense;

(3) The offense with which the person being summoned is charged and the date and location of the alleged offense;

(4) The location of the court and the day and hour at which he is summoned to appear;

(4) The location of the court and the day and hour at which he is summoned to appear;

(5) That failure to so appear is a violation of Georgia laws and subject to prosecution;

(5) That failure to so appear is a violation of Georgia laws and subject to prosecution;

(6) The date the summons is served; and

(6) The date the summons is served; and

(7) The name and official designation of the officer serving it.

(7) The name and official designation of the officer serving it.

(c) Every person so summoned shall appear at the place and on the date ordered except in cases where a bond has been posted in lieu of the summons or where the court has granted a continuance.

(c) Every person so summoned shall appear at the place and on the date ordered except in cases where a bond has been posted in lieu of the summons or where the court has granted a continuance.

(d) The officer serving a summons pursuant to this Code section shall, on or before the return date of the summons, deliver a copy thereof to the court before which it is returnable, or to the clerk of such court, and shall file any information and such affidavits as may be required with respect to the alleged offense.

(d) The officer serving a summons pursuant to this Code section shall, on or before the return date of the summons, deliver a copy thereof to the court before which it is returnable, or to the clerk of such court, and shall file any information and such affidavits as may be required with respect to the alleged offense.

(e) Personal delivery of a summons to the persons charged shall constitute due and proper service of the summons; provided, however, that if the violation is for a vehicle parking violation involving an unattended vehicle, service may be made by placing the summons on the driver's side of the windshield of the vehicle.

(e) Personal delivery of a summons to the persons charged shall constitute due and proper service of the summons; provided, however, that if the violation is for a vehicle parking violation involving an unattended vehicle, service may be made by placing the summons on the driver's side of the windshield of the vehicle.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-73 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-73
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-73
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any fur dealer to dispose of any carcasses or parts of carcasses of any fur-bearing animals or alligators except pursuant to a written plan of disposal submitted to and approved by the department in writing. Such a plan of disposal shall be designed to minimize vermin infestation, odors, and disease hazards. Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to the administrative license revocation, suspension, denial, and refusal provisions of Code Section 27-2-25 .
O.C.G.A. § 27-5-8 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 27-5-8
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-5-8
Status: in_force

(a) Peace officers authorized to enforce this chapter may seize as contraband any wild animal for which a permit or license, or both, is required and for which no permit or license, or both, has been obtained.

(a) Peace officers authorized to enforce this chapter may seize as contraband any wild animal for which a permit or license, or both, is required and for which no permit or license, or both, has been obtained.

(b) When any peace officer authorized to enforce this chapter has seized as contraband any wild animal, he shall deliver the same to the department. To recover such wild animal, the owner or the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure may file, in the state or superior court having jurisdiction in the county where the seizure was made, a civil action against the State of Georgia, Department of Natural Resources, within 30 days following such seizure. The person filing the action shall have the burden of proof of showing that the wild animal was not held in violation of this title, and the action shall be tried as other civil cases in such court. The wild animal for which the action has been filed shall be held pending the resolution of the action. Reasonable charges for storage shall be paid to the department by the owner and the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure unless it is determined that the seizure was unlawful.

(b) When any peace officer authorized to enforce this chapter has seized as contraband any wild animal, he shall deliver the same to the department. To recover such wild animal, the owner or the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure may file, in the state or superior court having jurisdiction in the county where the seizure was made, a civil action against the State of Georgia, Department of Natural Resources, within 30 days following such seizure. The person filing the action shall have the burden of proof of showing that the wild animal was not held in violation of this title, and the action shall be tried as other civil cases in such court. The wild animal for which the action has been filed shall be held pending the resolution of the action. Reasonable charges for storage shall be paid to the department by the owner and the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure unless it is determined that the seizure was unlawful.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-64 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-64
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-64
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to use any kind of firearm to kill or injure mink or otter or to possess or sell any mink or otter, or the pelt thereof, which was killed by any kind of firearm, provided that nothing in this Code section shall prevent a person from dispatching a mink or otter found in a trap or from killing any mink or otter while it is destroying or damaging, or about to destroy or damage, the person's crops, domestic fowl, or other personal property.
O.C.G.A. § 27-5-2 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 27-5-2
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-5-2
Status: in_force

(a) The board shall have the authority to regulate the importation, transportation, sale, and possession of wild animals when and to the extent that the importation, transportation, sale, or possession poses a possibility of: (1) Harmful competition for wildlife; (2) The introduction of a disease or pest harmful to wildlife; (3) Problems of enforcement of laws and regulations relating to wildlife; (4) Danger to wildlife or other natural resources; or (5) Danger to the physical safety of human beings.

(a) The board shall have the authority to regulate the importation, transportation, sale, and possession of wild animals when and to the extent that the importation, transportation, sale, or possession poses a possibility of:

(1) Harmful competition for wildlife;

(1) Harmful competition for wildlife;

(2) The introduction of a disease or pest harmful to wildlife;

(2) The introduction of a disease or pest harmful to wildlife;

(3) Problems of enforcement of laws and regulations relating to wildlife;

(3) Problems of enforcement of laws and regulations relating to wildlife;

(4) Danger to wildlife or other natural resources; or

(4) Danger to wildlife or other natural resources; or

(5) Danger to the physical safety of human beings.

(5) Danger to the physical safety of human beings.

(b) The board is specifically authorized to supplement the list of wild animals set forth in this chapter for which a permit or license, or both, is required.

(b) The board is specifically authorized to supplement the list of wild animals set forth in this chapter for which a permit or license, or both, is required.

(c) The board shall have the authority to require that any listed wild animal that is imported, transported, possessed, sold, or transferred by any person, including wild animal dealers, be labeled with the correct species, number, age, or other relevant information.

(c) The board shall have the authority to require that any listed wild animal that is imported, transported, possessed, sold, or transferred by any person, including wild animal dealers, be labeled with the correct species, number, age, or other relevant information.

(d) The board shall have the authority to require an applicant for a permit or license required under this chapter to supply such information and to supply it in such form as the board deems necessary for the department to discharge its responsibilities under this chapter.

(d) The board shall have the authority to require an applicant for a permit or license required under this chapter to supply such information and to supply it in such form as the board deems necessary for the department to discharge its responsibilities under this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-60 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-60
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-60
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in business as a trapper unless that person or his agent has a current valid commercial trapping license issued by the department, as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in business as a trapper unless that person or his agent has a current valid commercial trapping license issued by the department, as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .

(b) A landowner or a member of his immediate family desiring to trap on the landowner's private property may obtain a license for such purpose annually from the department at no charge.

(b) A landowner or a member of his immediate family desiring to trap on the landowner's private property may obtain a license for such purpose annually from the department at no charge.

(c) Any person violating any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(c) Any person violating any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-200 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-200
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-200
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to knowingly produce, manufacture, or possess any forged or false documents, records, or permits provided for in this article.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-170 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-170
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-170
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to willfully feed or bait any wild alligator not in captivity. For purposes of this Code section, willfully tossing any food item edible by alligators to or in the vicinity of a live alligator or willfully leaving any such item in or near the water where an alligator is known to frequent shall constitute willfully feeding or baiting a live alligator.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to willfully feed or bait any wild alligator not in captivity. For purposes of this Code section, willfully tossing any food item edible by alligators to or in the vicinity of a live alligator or willfully leaving any such item in or near the water where an alligator is known to frequent shall constitute willfully feeding or baiting a live alligator.

(b) Violation of this Code section shall constitute a misdemeanor and upon conviction a violator shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $200.00 or confinement for not over 30 days, or both.

(b) Violation of this Code section shall constitute a misdemeanor and upon conviction a violator shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $200.00 or confinement for not over 30 days, or both.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-183 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-183
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-183
Status: in_force

The board is authorized to promulgate and adopt any rules and regulations, consistent with sound wildlife management practices and not inconsistent with law, as it deems necessary and appropriate to carry out the purposes of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-32 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-32
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-32
Status: in_force

Sport trotlines must be marked with the owner's name and address and with visible buoys and must be submerged at least three feet below the surface of the water. Such trotlines must be attended regularly and removed after the completed fishing trip. Unmarked or unattended lines will be confiscated by personnel of the department. As used in this Code section, “sport trotlines” means one line or a combination of lines using less than 51 hooks. It shall be unlawful to use any sport trotline within one-half mile below any lock or dam on any of the fresh waters of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-92 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-92
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-92
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, it shall be unlawful to fish with any basket unless such basket is constructed of one-inch mesh wire and is not more than 72 inches in length and 60 inches in circumference. One throat shall be located at the extreme front of the basket, and the second throat shall be located 17 inches behind the first. The second throat shall have a trap door 7 1/2 inches square.

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law or regulation, it shall be unlawful to fish with any basket unless such basket is constructed of one-inch mesh wire and is not more than 72 inches in length and 60 inches in circumference. One throat shall be located at the extreme front of the basket, and the second throat shall be located 17 inches behind the first. The second throat shall have a trap door 7 1/2 inches square.

(b) It shall be unlawful to fish with baskets in fresh-water flowing streams. It shall also be unlawful to fish with a basket without notifying the game warden in the area of the time and place such basket is to be used.

(b) It shall be unlawful to fish with baskets in fresh-water flowing streams. It shall also be unlawful to fish with a basket without notifying the game warden in the area of the time and place such basket is to be used.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to possess any basket or trap made of metal, wire, wood, fabric, or other material suitable for use or capable of use in taking fish from the waters of this state unless the person has a commercial fishing license and unless an identification tag as required in Code Section 27-4-91 is attached to the basket or trap; provided, however, that the owner of a private pond may possess and use a basket or trap for taking fish therefrom without the necessity of obtaining a commercial fishing license; provided, further, that baskets meeting the requirements of subsection (a) of this Code section may be possessed for the purpose of sale and may be sold at a regularly established place for sale without the owner or operator of the place obtaining a commercial fishing license.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to possess any basket or trap made of metal, wire, wood, fabric, or other material suitable for use or capable of use in taking fish from the waters of this state unless the person has a commercial fishing license and unless an identification tag as required in Code Section 27-4-91 is attached to the basket or trap; provided, however, that the owner of a private pond may possess and use a basket or trap for taking fish therefrom without the necessity of obtaining a commercial fishing license; provided, further, that baskets meeting the requirements of subsection (a) of this Code section may be possessed for the purpose of sale and may be sold at a regularly established place for sale without the owner or operator of the place obtaining a commercial fishing license.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to take any game fish, except flathead catfish and channel catfish, with baskets.

(d) Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful to take any game fish, except flathead catfish and channel catfish, with baskets.

(e) Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for any person to fish with more than five baskets in the waters of Lake Sinclair and Lake Oconee. No person shall fish with the baskets of other persons unless accompanied by such other persons at the time of such fishing.

(e) Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, it shall be unlawful for any person to fish with more than five baskets in the waters of Lake Sinclair and Lake Oconee. No person shall fish with the baskets of other persons unless accompanied by such other persons at the time of such fishing.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-77 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-77
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-77
Status: in_force

Upon a conviction of any person for the violation of any of the provisions of this article, all licenses held by any such person to fish commercially or operate or use commercial fishing gear in the public impounded waters or navigable streams of this state may, at the option of the court, be forfeited for a period of six months from the date of conviction.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-62 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-62
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-62
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Code section, it shall be unlawful to trap any wildlife in this state between March 1 and November 19.

(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Code section, it shall be unlawful to trap any wildlife in this state between March 1 and November 19.

(b) It shall be unlawful to trap any wildlife during the period between November 20 and February 29, except as otherwise provided in this Code section and except that it shall not be unlawful to trap a fur-bearing animal during that period or a portion thereof if that period or portion thereof is designated by the board as an open trapping season for such fur-bearing animal.

(b) It shall be unlawful to trap any wildlife during the period between November 20 and February 29, except as otherwise provided in this Code section and except that it shall not be unlawful to trap a fur-bearing animal during that period or a portion thereof if that period or portion thereof is designated by the board as an open trapping season for such fur-bearing animal.

(c) In accordance with subsection (b) of this Code section and as may be appropriate in accordance with sound wildlife management principles, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing open seasons for the trapping of fur-bearing animals on a state-wide, regional, or local basis.

(c) In accordance with subsection (b) of this Code section and as may be appropriate in accordance with sound wildlife management principles, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations establishing open seasons for the trapping of fur-bearing animals on a state-wide, regional, or local basis.

(d) Notwithstanding subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section, it shall be lawful to trap on private land not operated by the department beaver, raccoons, opossum, rats, and mice at any time during the year. It shall also be lawful for any person to set steel traps within 200 yards of the residence or dwelling of any such person for the protection of livestock, ratites, poultry, or other fowl or domestic animals from any predatory bird or animal.

(d) Notwithstanding subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section, it shall be lawful to trap on private land not operated by the department beaver, raccoons, opossum, rats, and mice at any time during the year. It shall also be lawful for any person to set steel traps within 200 yards of the residence or dwelling of any such person for the protection of livestock, ratites, poultry, or other fowl or domestic animals from any predatory bird or animal.

(e) Any person who violates any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(e) Any person who violates any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-70 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-70
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-70
Status: in_force

(a) Upon application for a fur dealer license, the person making the application must do one of the following: (1) Post a cash forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board in favor of the State of Georgia in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers; or (2) File with the commissioner a forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board executed by a bonding, surety, or insurance company licensed to do business in this state in favor of the state in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers.

(a) Upon application for a fur dealer license, the person making the application must do one of the following:

(1) Post a cash forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board in favor of the State of Georgia in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers; or

(1) Post a cash forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board in favor of the State of Georgia in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers; or

(2) File with the commissioner a forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board executed by a bonding, surety, or insurance company licensed to do business in this state in favor of the state in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers.

(2) File with the commissioner a forfeiture bond in the form prescribed by the board executed by a bonding, surety, or insurance company licensed to do business in this state in favor of the state in the amount of $5,000.00, conditioned upon faithful compliance with the laws of this state and regulations of the board governing fur dealers.

(b) The term of the bond provided for in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be for one year and shall correspond to the period of the license. The commissioner shall have the right to recover on the bond for the breach of its conditions whenever the fur dealer violates the laws of this state governing fur dealers or any rule or regulation promulgated by the board pursuant thereto, as follows: (1) For the first violation, $500.00; (2) For the second violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $1,000.00; (3) For the third violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00; (4) For each subsequent violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00.

(b) The term of the bond provided for in paragraphs (1) and (2) of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be for one year and shall correspond to the period of the license. The commissioner shall have the right to recover on the bond for the breach of its conditions whenever the fur dealer violates the laws of this state governing fur dealers or any rule or regulation promulgated by the board pursuant thereto, as follows:

(1) For the first violation, $500.00;

(1) For the first violation, $500.00;

(2) For the second violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $1,000.00;

(2) For the second violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $1,000.00;

(3) For the third violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00;

(3) For the third violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00;

(4) For each subsequent violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00.

(4) For each subsequent violation within a two-year period of time of any prior violation, $5,000.00.

(c) Every breach or violation shall carry over to all succeeding bonds filed under this Code section. The aggregate liability shall not exceed the amount of the bond; however, in the event that the total amount of any bond is forfeited, the fur dealer's license shall be suspended until a new bond is filed covering the remainder of the period of the license; and it shall be unlawful and punishable under Code Section 27-3-69 for the fur dealer to engage in business as such at any time during the suspension of the license.

(c) Every breach or violation shall carry over to all succeeding bonds filed under this Code section. The aggregate liability shall not exceed the amount of the bond; however, in the event that the total amount of any bond is forfeited, the fur dealer's license shall be suspended until a new bond is filed covering the remainder of the period of the license; and it shall be unlawful and punishable under Code Section 27-3-69 for the fur dealer to engage in business as such at any time during the suspension of the license.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-29 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-29
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-29
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, the commissioner may designate not more than three days, which need not be consecutive, in each calendar year as free fishing days during which residents may, without obtaining a fishing license, exercise the privileges of a holder of a fishing license, subject to all limitations, restrictions, conditions, rules, and regulations applicable to the holder of a fishing license. This Code section shall in no way affect the commercial fishing licenses required under this article.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-114 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-114
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-114
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided, all wildlife laws and regulations shall be in full force and effect on shooting preserves licensed pursuant to this article. Specifically, hunting licenses shall be required of all persons hunting on such preserves; provided, however, that it shall be lawful for any resident or nonresident to hunt pen raised game birds or fish in any private or state waters within the boundaries of such a preserve with a shooting preserve hunting license as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .

(a) Except as otherwise specifically provided, all wildlife laws and regulations shall be in full force and effect on shooting preserves licensed pursuant to this article. Specifically, hunting licenses shall be required of all persons hunting on such preserves; provided, however, that it shall be lawful for any resident or nonresident to hunt pen raised game birds or fish in any private or state waters within the boundaries of such a preserve with a shooting preserve hunting license as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .

(b) The requirements of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-5 shall not apply to any person hunting pen raised game birds on a properly licensed shooting preserve, provided such person has received hunter education instruction that, at minimum, demonstrates techniques for proper firearm handling, unloading, and safety.

(b) The requirements of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-5 shall not apply to any person hunting pen raised game birds on a properly licensed shooting preserve, provided such person has received hunter education instruction that, at minimum, demonstrates techniques for proper firearm handling, unloading, and safety.
O.C.G.A. § 27-5-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 27-5-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-5-1
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds and declares that it is in the public interest to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare by strictly regulating in this state the importation, transportation, sale, transfer, and possession of those wild animals which pose a possibility of:

(1) Harmful competition for wildlife;

(1) Harmful competition for wildlife;

(2) The introduction of a disease or pest harmful to wildlife;

(2) The introduction of a disease or pest harmful to wildlife;

(3) Problems of enforcing laws and regulations relative to wildlife;

(3) Problems of enforcing laws and regulations relative to wildlife;

(4) Threatening wildlife or other natural resources; or

(4) Threatening wildlife or other natural resources; or

(5) Endangering the physical safety of human beings.

(5) Endangering the physical safety of human beings.

The importation, transportation, sale, transfer, and possession of wild animals are privileges not to be granted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that such actions can be accomplished in a manner that does not pose unnecessary risk to Georgia's wildlife and other natural resources or to the citizens of and visitors to this state. For these reasons, the General Assembly further finds and declares that only certain wild animals may be held for scientific or educational purposes, for public exhibition, or as pets and may only be lawfully held when the requirements of this chapter are met. The General Assembly further finds and declares that any wild animal for which a license or permit, or both, is required under the provisions of this chapter and for which no such license or permit, or both, has been obtained is a nuisance and is contraband and is subject to seizure by any peace officer authorized to enforce this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-193 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-193
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-193
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to take or possess shellfish from unapproved growing areas except at such times and places as the department may establish. The department is authorized to close approved growing areas to allow transplanting at any time between January 1 and December 31. It shall be unlawful to engage in transplanting of shellfish from unapproved growing areas without written authorization from the department. Such authorization may condition the transplanting upon compliance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management. In approving growing areas, the department shall consider such current guidelines as have been established by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program at the time of approval of the growing areas and current, sound principles of wildlife research and management.

(a) It shall be unlawful to take or possess shellfish from unapproved growing areas except at such times and places as the department may establish. The department is authorized to close approved growing areas to allow transplanting at any time between January 1 and December 31. It shall be unlawful to engage in transplanting of shellfish from unapproved growing areas without written authorization from the department. Such authorization may condition the transplanting upon compliance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management. In approving growing areas, the department shall consider such current guidelines as have been established by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program at the time of approval of the growing areas and current, sound principles of wildlife research and management.

(b) It shall be unlawful to build or operate a facility for controlled purification of shellfish without prior written authorization from the department. In issuing such authorization, the department shall consider such current guidelines as have been established by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program and the rules and regulations of the Department of Agriculture at the time of such authorization.

(b) It shall be unlawful to build or operate a facility for controlled purification of shellfish without prior written authorization from the department. In issuing such authorization, the department shall consider such current guidelines as have been established by the National Shellfish Sanitation Program and the rules and regulations of the Department of Agriculture at the time of such authorization.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-257 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-257
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-257
Status: in_force

(a) All applications to the department for registration as a seller of domestic fish shall: (1) Designate an address in this state where the applicant can be personally served with legal process; (2) Contain an appointment of an agent in this state for acceptance of service of legal process, together with the agent's address in this state; or (3) Contain a designation of the Secretary of State for acceptance of service of legal process.

(a) All applications to the department for registration as a seller of domestic fish shall:

(1) Designate an address in this state where the applicant can be personally served with legal process;

(1) Designate an address in this state where the applicant can be personally served with legal process;

(2) Contain an appointment of an agent in this state for acceptance of service of legal process, together with the agent's address in this state; or

(2) Contain an appointment of an agent in this state for acceptance of service of legal process, together with the agent's address in this state; or

(3) Contain a designation of the Secretary of State for acceptance of service of legal process.

(3) Contain a designation of the Secretary of State for acceptance of service of legal process.

(b) A copy of such application shall be forwarded to the Secretary of State by the department.

(b) A copy of such application shall be forwarded to the Secretary of State by the department.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-18 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-18
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-18
Status: in_force

The department shall be authorized to issue to a person who cultivates crops, who is immediately responsible for their cultivation, or who is the principal owner of the crops a permit to kill deer which have caused or are reasonably certain to cause damage to crops which were planted for the purpose of harvesting and marketing such crops or their by-products. The person shall apply to the department for such a permit on a form containing such information as may be necessary for the proper evaluation and consideration of the application. Permits shall be issued only in cases where the department has determined that the killing of deer is justified. Representatives of the department are authorized to investigate claims of damage and the necessity of killing deer prior to the issuance of such a permit. Permits issued by the department shall include restrictions and conditions relative to the property on which deer may be killed, persons authorized to kill deer on the property, crops which may be protected, number and sex of deer which may be killed, expiration of permit, and such other restrictions and conditions as may be necessary. It shall be unlawful for any person to kill any deer under the authority of any such permit except in accordance with the restrictions and conditions of the permit.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-14 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-14
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-14
Status: in_force

The proceeds from all fines and bond forfeitures arising from criminal prosecution for violation of the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations shall, except as otherwise specifically provided in this title, be applied initially to payment of the fees of the officers of the trial court and court costs as prescribed by law. Any money remaining after such disposition shall be remitted promptly by the clerk of the court in which the case is disposed of to the county treasurer of the county in which the fine is assessed, who shall deposit the funds in the general funds of the county.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-70 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-70
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-70
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to fish commercially except in waters opened for commercial fishing by regulation of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-133 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-133
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-133
Status: in_force

Any person who violates any rule or regulation promulgated by the board pursuant to this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-93 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-93
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-93
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to ship or transport from any point within this state to any other point within this state, or to points beyond this state, any wildlife or parts thereof for propagation or scientific purposes unless the person has been issued and is holding a valid scientific collecting permit. Both the person shipping or transporting the wildlife and any carrier accepting such shipment shall, on the same day the shipment is made, report to the department the number and the species of wildlife shipped, to whom shipped, and by whom shipped.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-10 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-10
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-10
Status: in_force

The State of Georgia assents to the provisions of P.L. 75-415 and P.L. 81-681. The department is authorized, empowered, and directed to perform such acts as may be necessary to establish and conduct cooperative wildlife restoration projects as defined in P.L. 75-415 , cooperative fish restoration projects as defined in P.L. 81-681 , and wildlife conservation and restoration programs, wildlife conservation education, and wildlife associated recreation projects as defined in P.L. 106-553 , as well as the regulations promulgated under those federal acts. No funds accruing to the state from license fees paid by hunters or fishermen or interest thereon shall be diverted for any purpose other than the administration of the department and for the study, protection, preservation, restoration, or propagation of fish and wildlife in this state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-194 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-194
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-194
Status: in_force

(a)(1) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for noncommercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than three inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than three inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster so attached cannot be removed without destroying the three-inch oyster. (2) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for commercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than two inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than two inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster to which it is so attached cannot be removed without destroying the two-inch oyster. (3) It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in shucking or canning oysters for market to shuck, can, purchase, or have in possession any quantity of oysters containing more than 5 percent of oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section. Smaller oysters may be taken incidentally with such minimum-size oysters when they are directly attached to the minimum-size oysters. Oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section may be taken or possessed if prior written approval has been obtained from the department and such approval is on the person of the harvester or person in possession of the oyster.

(a)(1) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for noncommercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than three inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than three inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster so attached cannot be removed without destroying the three-inch oyster.

(a)(1) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for noncommercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than three inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than three inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster so attached cannot be removed without destroying the three-inch oyster.

(2) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for commercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than two inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than two inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster to which it is so attached cannot be removed without destroying the two-inch oyster.

(2) It shall be unlawful to take any oysters for commercial purposes when the shells of the oysters measure less than two inches from hinge to mouth, except that oysters less than two inches from hinge to mouth may be removed if attached to an oyster of that minimum size and the oyster to which it is so attached cannot be removed without destroying the two-inch oyster.

(3) It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in shucking or canning oysters for market to shuck, can, purchase, or have in possession any quantity of oysters containing more than 5 percent of oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section. Smaller oysters may be taken incidentally with such minimum-size oysters when they are directly attached to the minimum-size oysters. Oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section may be taken or possessed if prior written approval has been obtained from the department and such approval is on the person of the harvester or person in possession of the oyster.

(3) It shall be unlawful for any person engaged in shucking or canning oysters for market to shuck, can, purchase, or have in possession any quantity of oysters containing more than 5 percent of oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section. Smaller oysters may be taken incidentally with such minimum-size oysters when they are directly attached to the minimum-size oysters. Oysters of prohibited size as defined in this Code section may be taken or possessed if prior written approval has been obtained from the department and such approval is on the person of the harvester or person in possession of the oyster.

(b) It shall be unlawful to take or possess any clam for commercial or recreational purposes when the maximum depth of the shell of the clam measures less than three-fourths' inch thickness from one shell half to the other unless prior written approval has been obtained from the department and such approval is on the person of the harvester or person in possession of the clam.

(b) It shall be unlawful to take or possess any clam for commercial or recreational purposes when the maximum depth of the shell of the clam measures less than three-fourths' inch thickness from one shell half to the other unless prior written approval has been obtained from the department and such approval is on the person of the harvester or person in possession of the clam.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-206 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-206
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-206
Status: in_force

(a) The department may issue no more than 200 commercial food shrimp cast netting licenses as provided in this Code section. Such licenses shall be issued only to individuals and shall not be transferable.

(a) The department may issue no more than 200 commercial food shrimp cast netting licenses as provided in this Code section. Such licenses shall be issued only to individuals and shall not be transferable.

(b) If the number of licenses issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section does not total 200, the department may issue the remaining allotment of commercial food shrimp cast netting licenses in the initial or any subsequent license year by lottery devised and operated by the department. After such lottery has been conducted, any remaining unissued licenses may be issued via a method established by the department.

(b) If the number of licenses issued pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section does not total 200, the department may issue the remaining allotment of commercial food shrimp cast netting licenses in the initial or any subsequent license year by lottery devised and operated by the department. After such lottery has been conducted, any remaining unissued licenses may be issued via a method established by the department.

(c) The department shall charge a license fee for the commercial food shrimp cast netting license in the amount of $250.00 for a resident commercial food shrimp cast netting license and $2,500.00 for a nonresident commercial food shrimp cast netting license.

(c) The department shall charge a license fee for the commercial food shrimp cast netting license in the amount of $250.00 for a resident commercial food shrimp cast netting license and $2,500.00 for a nonresident commercial food shrimp cast netting license.

(d) Any license which is not renewed in subsequent license years shall revert to the department to be issued as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(d) Any license which is not renewed in subsequent license years shall revert to the department to be issued as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-76 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-76
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-76
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to engage in the business of a wholesale or retail fish dealer, as defined in Code Section 27-1-2 , without first obtaining an annual license from the department as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . Properly licensed wholesale fish dealers or retail fish dealers may sell game fish obtained from a licensed fish hatchery or domestic fish obtained from a registered aquaculturist or as otherwise provided in Code Section 27-4-74 . Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, a licensed commercial fish hatchery shall not be required to obtain a license as a wholesale fish dealer or a retail fish dealer.

(a) It shall be unlawful to engage in the business of a wholesale or retail fish dealer, as defined in Code Section 27-1-2 , without first obtaining an annual license from the department as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . Properly licensed wholesale fish dealers or retail fish dealers may sell game fish obtained from a licensed fish hatchery or domestic fish obtained from a registered aquaculturist or as otherwise provided in Code Section 27-4-74 . Notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary, a licensed commercial fish hatchery shall not be required to obtain a license as a wholesale fish dealer or a retail fish dealer.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, nonresident persons may sell and transport fish and fish eggs into the state without being required to procure a wholesale fish dealer license where the sale and shipment are made to a wholesale fish dealer duly licensed under Code Section 27-2-23 .

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, nonresident persons may sell and transport fish and fish eggs into the state without being required to procure a wholesale fish dealer license where the sale and shipment are made to a wholesale fish dealer duly licensed under Code Section 27-2-23 .

(c) The board may by regulation prohibit or limit the importation, possession, or sale in this state of live fish or fish eggs where the same are found to be harmful to endemic fish populations or where the importation, possession, or sale might introduce or spread disease or parasites.

(c) The board may by regulation prohibit or limit the importation, possession, or sale in this state of live fish or fish eggs where the same are found to be harmful to endemic fish populations or where the importation, possession, or sale might introduce or spread disease or parasites.

(d) The game wardens or other agents or officials of the department shall confiscate any fish imported, purchased, or acquired by any person in violation of this Code section or any regulation promulgated by the board pursuant to this Code section.

(d) The game wardens or other agents or officials of the department shall confiscate any fish imported, purchased, or acquired by any person in violation of this Code section or any regulation promulgated by the board pursuant to this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-8 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-8
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-8
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to make use of any pitfall, deadfall, catch, snare, trap, net, salt lick, blind pig, baited hook, or other device for the purpose of taking any game animal or game bird or any other wildlife, except as otherwise provided in this title or by rule or regulation of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-19 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-19
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-19
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, game wardens and deputy game wardens, when authorized to do so by the board, may arrest persons accused of violating any law or regulation which such officers are empowered to enforce by the issuance of a citation, provided that the offense is committed in the presence of the officer or information concerning the offense constituting a basis for arrest was received by the arresting officer from a law enforcement officer observing the offense being committed. The arresting officer may issue to the person a citation which shall enumerate the specific charges against the person and the date upon which the person is to appear and answer the charges. Whenever an arrest is made by the arresting officer on the basis of information received from another law enforcement officer observing the offense being committed, the citation shall list the name of each officer, and each must be present when the charges against the offender are heard.

(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, game wardens and deputy game wardens, when authorized to do so by the board, may arrest persons accused of violating any law or regulation which such officers are empowered to enforce by the issuance of a citation, provided that the offense is committed in the presence of the officer or information concerning the offense constituting a basis for arrest was received by the arresting officer from a law enforcement officer observing the offense being committed. The arresting officer may issue to the person a citation which shall enumerate the specific charges against the person and the date upon which the person is to appear and answer the charges. Whenever an arrest is made by the arresting officer on the basis of information received from another law enforcement officer observing the offense being committed, the citation shall list the name of each officer, and each must be present when the charges against the offender are heard.

(b) If the person charged shall fail to appear as specified in the citation, the judge having jurisdiction of the offense may issue a warrant ordering the apprehension of the person and commanding that he be brought before the court to answer the charge contained within the citation and the charge of his failure to appear as required. The person shall then be allowed to make a reasonable bond to appear on a given date before the court.

(b) If the person charged shall fail to appear as specified in the citation, the judge having jurisdiction of the offense may issue a warrant ordering the apprehension of the person and commanding that he be brought before the court to answer the charge contained within the citation and the charge of his failure to appear as required. The person shall then be allowed to make a reasonable bond to appear on a given date before the court.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-74 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-74
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-74
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Code section and in Code Section 27-4-75 , it shall be unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Code section and in Code Section 27-4-75 , it shall be unlawful for any person to sell or purchase any game fish.

(b) Game fish shipped into this state and accompanied by a bona fide bill of sale or lading giving the date of the transaction, the details of the source of the fish, and the species, number, and pounds thereof may be lawfully transported, sold, and resold, provided each person in possession thereof has the bill of sale or lading and has otherwise complied with this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section.

(b) Game fish shipped into this state and accompanied by a bona fide bill of sale or lading giving the date of the transaction, the details of the source of the fish, and the species, number, and pounds thereof may be lawfully transported, sold, and resold, provided each person in possession thereof has the bill of sale or lading and has otherwise complied with this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section.

(c) It shall be lawful for any person to sell or purchase game fish from a pond when the owner of the pond has obtained a valid permit from the department and the permit is displayed in a prominent place at the pond and the person shall have complied with all the requirements of this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section. The permit may be issued to the owner only once annually and shall limit the time for taking fish from the pond to 15 days unless an extension is granted by the department. However, no person shall sell, purchase, or possess any game fish taken from such a pond unless the fish are packaged and labeled with the pond permit number and the number and pounds of each species of fish contained therein. The fish shall remain so packaged until processed for consumption or released into another body of water.

(c) It shall be lawful for any person to sell or purchase game fish from a pond when the owner of the pond has obtained a valid permit from the department and the permit is displayed in a prominent place at the pond and the person shall have complied with all the requirements of this Code section and any regulations promulgated pursuant to this Code section. The permit may be issued to the owner only once annually and shall limit the time for taking fish from the pond to 15 days unless an extension is granted by the department. However, no person shall sell, purchase, or possess any game fish taken from such a pond unless the fish are packaged and labeled with the pond permit number and the number and pounds of each species of fish contained therein. The fish shall remain so packaged until processed for consumption or released into another body of water.

(d) Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this title to the contrary, American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish harvested from Georgia waters other than private ponds in the course of commercial fishing as that term is defined in Code Section 27-1-2 shall not be subject to the prohibitions set forth in this Code section.

(d) Notwithstanding any of the provisions of this title to the contrary, American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish harvested from Georgia waters other than private ponds in the course of commercial fishing as that term is defined in Code Section 27-1-2 shall not be subject to the prohibitions set forth in this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-72 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-72
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-72
Status: in_force

All applications to the department for any license or permit required by this article shall designate an address in Georgia where the applicant can be personally served with legal process, or shall contain an appointment of an agent in Georgia for acceptance of service of legal process together with the agent's Georgia address, or shall contain a designation of the Secretary of State of Georgia for acceptance of service of legal process. A copy of any application so designating the Secretary of State shall be forwarded by the department to the Secretary of State. The filing of an application with the department for a license or permit shall constitute an admission by the applicant that the applicant is doing business in Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-17 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-17
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-17
Status: in_force

(a) The board shall have the power to appoint deputy game wardens. No deputy game wardens may be appointed without actual duties relating to the protection of natural resources.

(a) The board shall have the power to appoint deputy game wardens. No deputy game wardens may be appointed without actual duties relating to the protection of natural resources.

(b) Deputy game wardens shall have all or part of the powers and duties of game wardens, as assigned by the board. Deputy game wardens who are not employees of the department shall receive no compensation for their services. The board is authorized to appoint such number of deputy game wardens as may be necessary to carry out the duties assigned to them.

(b) Deputy game wardens shall have all or part of the powers and duties of game wardens, as assigned by the board. Deputy game wardens who are not employees of the department shall receive no compensation for their services. The board is authorized to appoint such number of deputy game wardens as may be necessary to carry out the duties assigned to them.

(c) Each deputy game warden who is not an employee of the department shall personally secure a bond of not less than $5,000.00 from a bonding or surety company licensed to transact business in the State of Georgia conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties, payable to the department.

(c) Each deputy game warden who is not an employee of the department shall personally secure a bond of not less than $5,000.00 from a bonding or surety company licensed to transact business in the State of Georgia conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties, payable to the department.

(d) The board shall have the power to adopt rules and regulations concerning qualifications, appointments, badge, oath of office, and other matters pertaining to deputy game wardens.

(d) The board shall have the power to adopt rules and regulations concerning qualifications, appointments, badge, oath of office, and other matters pertaining to deputy game wardens.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-12 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-12
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-12
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to hunt any wild animal, game animal, or game bird by means of drugs, poisons, chemicals, smoke, gas, explosives, recorded calls or sounds, or recorded and electronically imitated or amplified sounds or calls. It shall also be unlawful to use electronic communications equipment for the purpose of facilitating pursuit of any wild animal, game bird, or game animal.

(a) It shall be unlawful to hunt any wild animal, game animal, or game bird by means of drugs, poisons, chemicals, smoke, gas, explosives, recorded calls or sounds, or recorded and electronically imitated or amplified sounds or calls. It shall also be unlawful to use electronic communications equipment for the purpose of facilitating pursuit of any wild animal, game bird, or game animal.

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ computer assisted remote hunting ” means the use of a computer or other device, equipment, hardware, or software to control remotely the aiming and discharge of a firearm or other weapon so as to allow a person not holding that firearm or other weapon to hunt or shoot a wild animal or any wildlife. (2) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, or association to engage in computer assisted remote hunting or provide or operate a facility that allows others to engage in computer assisted remote hunting if the wild animal or wildlife being hunted or shot is located in this state. (3)(A) Any person violating the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000.00 and not more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a term not to exceed 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment. (B) Any equipment used or intended for use in a violation of this Code section, excluding motor vehicles, is declared to be contraband and shall be forfeited in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9. (C) The hunting and fishing privileges of any person convicted of violating this subsection shall be suspended for three years.

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ computer assisted remote hunting ” means the use of a computer or other device, equipment, hardware, or software to control remotely the aiming and discharge of a firearm or other weapon so as to allow a person not holding that firearm or other weapon to hunt or shoot a wild animal or any wildlife.

(b)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ computer assisted remote hunting ” means the use of a computer or other device, equipment, hardware, or software to control remotely the aiming and discharge of a firearm or other weapon so as to allow a person not holding that firearm or other weapon to hunt or shoot a wild animal or any wildlife.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, or association to engage in computer assisted remote hunting or provide or operate a facility that allows others to engage in computer assisted remote hunting if the wild animal or wildlife being hunted or shot is located in this state.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, partnership, or association to engage in computer assisted remote hunting or provide or operate a facility that allows others to engage in computer assisted remote hunting if the wild animal or wildlife being hunted or shot is located in this state.

(3)(A) Any person violating the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000.00 and not more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a term not to exceed 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment. (B) Any equipment used or intended for use in a violation of this Code section, excluding motor vehicles, is declared to be contraband and shall be forfeited in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9. (C) The hunting and fishing privileges of any person convicted of violating this subsection shall be suspended for three years.

(3)(A) Any person violating the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000.00 and not more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a term not to exceed 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(3)(A) Any person violating the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,000.00 and not more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a term not to exceed 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(B) Any equipment used or intended for use in a violation of this Code section, excluding motor vehicles, is declared to be contraband and shall be forfeited in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9.

(B) Any equipment used or intended for use in a violation of this Code section, excluding motor vehicles, is declared to be contraband and shall be forfeited in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9.

(C) The hunting and fishing privileges of any person convicted of violating this subsection shall be suspended for three years.

(C) The hunting and fishing privileges of any person convicted of violating this subsection shall be suspended for three years.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-20 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-20
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-20
Status: in_force

(a) In addition to the powers enumerated in Code Sections 27-1-18 and 27-1-19 , game wardens shall have all the powers previously vested in any other law enforcement officers within the department including, but not limited to, the following: (1) To enforce all laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife and to boating safety and as otherwise provided; (2) To execute all warrants and search warrants for the violation of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety; (3) To serve subpoenas issued for the examination, investigation, and trial of all offenses against the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety; (4) To arrest without warrant any person found violating any of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to hunting, fishing, or boating; (5) To seize and take possession of all wildlife or parts thereof taken, caught, killed, captured, possessed, or controlled or which have been shipped or are about to be shipped at any time and in any manner or for any purpose contrary to the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife; (6) To go upon property outside of buildings, posted or otherwise, in the performance of their duties; (7) To carry firearms while performing duties pertaining to wildlife; (8) To seize as evidence, without warrant, any device other than a boat, vehicle, or aircraft when they have cause to believe that its possession or use is in violation of any of the provisions of the laws or regulations dealing with wildlife. For the purposes of this Code section, “device” includes any light, hunting apparatus, or fishing or netting gear or tackle; (9) To enter and inspect any commercial cold storage warehouse, ice house, locker plant, butcher shop, or other plant or building for the purpose of determining whether wildlife is being kept or stored therein in violation of the wildlife laws or regulations; and (10) To exercise the full authority of peace officers while in the performance of their duties.

(a) In addition to the powers enumerated in Code Sections 27-1-18 and 27-1-19 , game wardens shall have all the powers previously vested in any other law enforcement officers within the department including, but not limited to, the following:

(1) To enforce all laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife and to boating safety and as otherwise provided;

(1) To enforce all laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife and to boating safety and as otherwise provided;

(2) To execute all warrants and search warrants for the violation of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety;

(2) To execute all warrants and search warrants for the violation of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety;

(3) To serve subpoenas issued for the examination, investigation, and trial of all offenses against the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety;

(3) To serve subpoenas issued for the examination, investigation, and trial of all offenses against the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to boating safety;

(4) To arrest without warrant any person found violating any of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to hunting, fishing, or boating;

(4) To arrest without warrant any person found violating any of the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife or to hunting, fishing, or boating;

(5) To seize and take possession of all wildlife or parts thereof taken, caught, killed, captured, possessed, or controlled or which have been shipped or are about to be shipped at any time and in any manner or for any purpose contrary to the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife;

(5) To seize and take possession of all wildlife or parts thereof taken, caught, killed, captured, possessed, or controlled or which have been shipped or are about to be shipped at any time and in any manner or for any purpose contrary to the laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to wildlife;

(6) To go upon property outside of buildings, posted or otherwise, in the performance of their duties;

(6) To go upon property outside of buildings, posted or otherwise, in the performance of their duties;

(7) To carry firearms while performing duties pertaining to wildlife;

(7) To carry firearms while performing duties pertaining to wildlife;

(8) To seize as evidence, without warrant, any device other than a boat, vehicle, or aircraft when they have cause to believe that its possession or use is in violation of any of the provisions of the laws or regulations dealing with wildlife. For the purposes of this Code section, “device” includes any light, hunting apparatus, or fishing or netting gear or tackle;

(8) To seize as evidence, without warrant, any device other than a boat, vehicle, or aircraft when they have cause to believe that its possession or use is in violation of any of the provisions of the laws or regulations dealing with wildlife. For the purposes of this Code section, “device” includes any light, hunting apparatus, or fishing or netting gear or tackle;

(9) To enter and inspect any commercial cold storage warehouse, ice house, locker plant, butcher shop, or other plant or building for the purpose of determining whether wildlife is being kept or stored therein in violation of the wildlife laws or regulations; and

(9) To enter and inspect any commercial cold storage warehouse, ice house, locker plant, butcher shop, or other plant or building for the purpose of determining whether wildlife is being kept or stored therein in violation of the wildlife laws or regulations; and

(10) To exercise the full authority of peace officers while in the performance of their duties.

(10) To exercise the full authority of peace officers while in the performance of their duties.

(b) Unless inconsistent with this title, whenever any statute pertaining to an agency whose functions are assigned to the department refers to law enforcement personnel of that agency, that reference applies to game wardens.

(b) Unless inconsistent with this title, whenever any statute pertaining to an agency whose functions are assigned to the department refers to law enforcement personnel of that agency, that reference applies to game wardens.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-93 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-93
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-93
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to use any commercial fishing gear, as designated in this title, within one-half mile below any lock or dam on any of the fresh waters of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-262 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-262
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-262
Status: in_force

The board shall make and publish in print or electronically such rules and regulations, not inconsistent with law, as it deems necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-185 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-185
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-185
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who violates any provision of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,500.00 nor more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(a) Any person who violates any provision of this article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than $1,500.00 nor more than $5,000.00, imprisonment for a period not exceeding 12 months, or both such fine and imprisonment.

(b) Any licenses or permits issued under this title to any person convicted of violating any provision of this article shall by operation of law be revoked and shall not be reissued for a period of three years. The department shall notify the person in writing of the revocation.

(b) Any licenses or permits issued under this title to any person convicted of violating any provision of this article shall by operation of law be revoked and shall not be reissued for a period of three years. The department shall notify the person in writing of the revocation.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-151 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-151
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-151
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to: (1) Interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person by intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent such person from such lawful taking of wildlife; (2) Disturb or engage in activity tending to disturb wildlife for the purpose of intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent the lawful taking of such wildlife; or (3) Fail to obey an order of a law enforcement officer to desist from conduct violating paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection if the law enforcement officer observes such conduct or if the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the person has engaged in such conduct that day or that the person plans or intends to engage in such conduct that day at a specific location.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to:

(1) Interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person by intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent such person from such lawful taking of wildlife;

(1) Interfere with the lawful taking of wildlife by another person by intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent such person from such lawful taking of wildlife;

(2) Disturb or engage in activity tending to disturb wildlife for the purpose of intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent the lawful taking of such wildlife; or

(2) Disturb or engage in activity tending to disturb wildlife for the purpose of intentionally preventing or attempting to prevent the lawful taking of such wildlife; or

(3) Fail to obey an order of a law enforcement officer to desist from conduct violating paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection if the law enforcement officer observes such conduct or if the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the person has engaged in such conduct that day or that the person plans or intends to engage in such conduct that day at a specific location.

(3) Fail to obey an order of a law enforcement officer to desist from conduct violating paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection if the law enforcement officer observes such conduct or if the law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the person has engaged in such conduct that day or that the person plans or intends to engage in such conduct that day at a specific location.

(b) Nothing in subsection (a) of this Code section shall be construed to apply to the activities of law enforcement officers or employees of the department in the performance of their duties.

(b) Nothing in subsection (a) of this Code section shall be construed to apply to the activities of law enforcement officers or employees of the department in the performance of their duties.
O.C.G.A. § 27-5-12 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 27-5-12
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-5-12
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to shoot, kill, or wound any wild animal held under a wild animal license or permit or any farmed deer for enjoyment, gain, amusement, or sport. This Code section does not prohibit:

(1) A licensed veterinarian from diagnosing, treating, or performing other duties within the standards of veterinary practice on a farmed deer;

(1) A licensed veterinarian from diagnosing, treating, or performing other duties within the standards of veterinary practice on a farmed deer;

(2) The slaughter of wild animals or farmed deer in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (16) of Code Section 27-5-6 and with the laws of this state relating to the slaughter of livestock; or

(2) The slaughter of wild animals or farmed deer in compliance with the provisions of paragraph (16) of Code Section 27-5-6 and with the laws of this state relating to the slaughter of livestock; or

(3) The recapture or disposal of farmed deer which have escaped and which have become classified as wild animals pursuant to Code Section 4-4-174 or the disposal of wild animals according to Code Section 27-5-10 .

(3) The recapture or disposal of farmed deer which have escaped and which have become classified as wild animals pursuant to Code Section 4-4-174 or the disposal of wild animals according to Code Section 27-5-10 .
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-215 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-215
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-215
Status: in_force

The state auditor is authorized and empowered from time to time to examine the accounts and books of the commission, including its receipts, disbursements, and such other items referring to its financial standing as the state auditor may deem proper, and to report the results of the examination to the Governor of the state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-32 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-32
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-32
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to hire another to take or possess wildlife in violation of the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-40 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-40
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-40
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt deer or for any person to accompany another person hunting deer during the firearms deer season unless each person shall wear a total of at least 500 square inches of daylight fluorescent orange material as an outer garment. Such clothing must be worn above the waistline and may include a head covering.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-25-2 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-25-2
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-25.2
Status: in_force

The commissioner shall have the power to suspend any license required by this title when such license holder is not in compliance with a court order for child support as provided in Code Section 19-6-28.1 . The commissioner shall also have the power to deny the application for issuance or renewal of a license required by this title when such applicant is not in compliance with a court order for child support as provided in Code Section 19-6-28.1 . Notwithstanding the provisions of Code Section 27-2-25 , the hearings and appeal procedures provided for in Code Section 19-6-28.1 shall be the only such procedures required to suspend or deny any license pursuant to this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-16 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-16
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-16
Status: in_force

(a) Within the department is established a unit of peace officers to be known as game wardens. All such game wardens shall be at least 21 years of age. Such unit of peace officers shall include, but not be limited to, the commissioner and other supervisory personnel; provided, however, that the commissioner and the director of the division to which peace officer functions are assigned shall be excluded from the classified service as defined by Code Section 45-20-2 unless otherwise provided by law. The commissioner shall have the power to appoint such a number of game wardens of the state at large, as may be necessary to carry out the duties assigned to them, who shall be charged with the law enforcement responsibilities pertaining to the department.

(a) Within the department is established a unit of peace officers to be known as game wardens. All such game wardens shall be at least 21 years of age. Such unit of peace officers shall include, but not be limited to, the commissioner and other supervisory personnel; provided, however, that the commissioner and the director of the division to which peace officer functions are assigned shall be excluded from the classified service as defined by Code Section 45-20-2 unless otherwise provided by law. The commissioner shall have the power to appoint such a number of game wardens of the state at large, as may be necessary to carry out the duties assigned to them, who shall be charged with the law enforcement responsibilities pertaining to the department.

(b) After a game warden has accumulated 25 years of service with the department as a peace officer and upon leaving such department under honorable conditions, such game warden shall be entitled as part of such officer's compensation to retain his or her weapon and badge pursuant to regulations promulgated by the commissioner.

(b) After a game warden has accumulated 25 years of service with the department as a peace officer and upon leaving such department under honorable conditions, such game warden shall be entitled as part of such officer's compensation to retain his or her weapon and badge pursuant to regulations promulgated by the commissioner.

(c) As used in this subsection, the term “ disability ” means a disability that prevents an individual from working as a law enforcement officer. When a game warden leaves the department as a result of a disability arising in the line of duty, such game warden shall be entitled as part of such officer's compensation to retain his or her weapon and badge in accordance with regulations promulgated by the commissioner.

(c) As used in this subsection, the term “ disability ” means a disability that prevents an individual from working as a law enforcement officer. When a game warden leaves the department as a result of a disability arising in the line of duty, such game warden shall be entitled as part of such officer's compensation to retain his or her weapon and badge in accordance with regulations promulgated by the commissioner.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-19-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-19-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-19.1
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to export, farm, or sell any fresh-water turtle or part thereof except in accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the board.

(a) It shall be unlawful to export, farm, or sell any fresh-water turtle or part thereof except in accordance with rules and regulations adopted by the board.

(b) As the board deems appropriate for purposes of this Code section, it may promulgate such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary under sound wildlife management practices.

(b) As the board deems appropriate for purposes of this Code section, it may promulgate such rules and regulations as are reasonable and necessary under sound wildlife management practices.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-20-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-20-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-20.1
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person required to obtain a fishing license as provided in Code Section 27-2-1 to fish in the salt waters of this state without participating in the Saltwater Information Program. Participation in such program shall require the completion of a screening questionnaire prior to obtaining a free Georgia salt water fishing endorsement and the possession of such endorsement or other evidence of participation while salt water fishing.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-115 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-115
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-115
Status: in_force

(a) The department is authorized to make and enter into agreements with properly licensed shooting preserves for the purpose of issuance and sale of shooting preserve hunting licenses.

(a) The department is authorized to make and enter into agreements with properly licensed shooting preserves for the purpose of issuance and sale of shooting preserve hunting licenses.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-5 , a shooting preserve authorized by the department pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section may sell shooting preserve hunting licenses so long as such shooting preserve meets the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 27-3-110 . The department may authorize a shooting preserve to issue temporary paper copies of shooting preserve hunting licenses to be used on such shooting preserve for one hunting season. Such paper copy shall satisfy the requirements of Code Section 27-2-1 .

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (b) of Code Section 27-2-5 , a shooting preserve authorized by the department pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section may sell shooting preserve hunting licenses so long as such shooting preserve meets the requirements of subsection (c) of Code Section 27-3-110 . The department may authorize a shooting preserve to issue temporary paper copies of shooting preserve hunting licenses to be used on such shooting preserve for one hunting season. Such paper copy shall satisfy the requirements of Code Section 27-2-1 .

(c) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the department shall not disclose any shooting preserve hunting license record which was lawfully purchased from a properly licensed shooting preserve and which reveals the name, home address, home telephone number, or social security number of the license holder unless written consent from the owner or lessee of such shooting preserve is obtained.

(c) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, the department shall not disclose any shooting preserve hunting license record which was lawfully purchased from a properly licensed shooting preserve and which reveals the name, home address, home telephone number, or social security number of the license holder unless written consent from the owner or lessee of such shooting preserve is obtained.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-90 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-90
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-90
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in commercial fresh-water fishing in this state without having a valid commercial fishing license as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 . The license shall be a personal license required of each individual engaging in the activities covered by this Code section and shall be effective from April 1 to March 31 of the following year.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-2 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-2
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-2
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to fish in the waters or from upon the lands of another without first having obtained permission from the landowner or person in charge of such lands, provided that nothing contained in this Code section shall be construed to apply to the fishing or taking of fish, other than oysters, clams, and other shellfish, in any of the salt-water creeks, streams, or estuaries leading from the Atlantic Ocean or from the sounds, rivers, or bays surrounding the several islands of this state. It shall also be unlawful for any person to obstruct or interfere with the right of any other person to fish in these salt-water creeks, streams, or estuaries leading from the Atlantic Ocean or from the sounds, rivers, or bays surrounding the several islands of this state. Game wardens, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, and all other peace officers of this state or of any county or municipality thereof shall enforce this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-187 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-187
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-187
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds that the wild harvest and mariculture of shellfish provide increased seafood production and long-term economic opportunities for coastal Georgia as well as increased ecological benefits to the estuarine environment by promoting natural water filtration and increased fishery habitats. The General Assembly also finds that there exists a public health concern when consuming raw or undercooked shellfish, especially during warm water, summer conditions. Therefore, the General Assembly declares that it is the policy of the state to encourage development of the commercial shellfish industry in ways that protect the public health and are compatible with the environment and with other public uses of the estuarine area, such as navigation, fishing, swimming, and other forms of recreation.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-50 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-50
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-50
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for trout in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 by any means other than using one pole and line held in hand.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for trout in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 by any means other than using one pole and line held in hand.

(b) It shall be unlawful to use live fish for bait in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 , except as authorized by the board.

(b) It shall be unlawful to use live fish for bait in any waters designated as trout waters pursuant to Code Section 27-4-51 , except as authorized by the board.

(c) It shall be unlawful to move trout from any of the fresh waters of this state to any other fresh waters of this state, except that authorized agents of the department may move trout as necessary for purposes of fisheries management, conservation, and restoration.

(c) It shall be unlawful to move trout from any of the fresh waters of this state to any other fresh waters of this state, except that authorized agents of the department may move trout as necessary for purposes of fisheries management, conservation, and restoration.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-18 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-18
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-18
Status: in_force

It shall be lawful to hunt foxes with dogs; provided, however, that no hunter shall go upon the land of another without the permission of the owner or the lessee of such land or the lessee of the game rights of such land.
O.C.G.A. § 27-5-9 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 5 / Section 27-5-9
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-5-9
Status: in_force

(a) Authorized personnel of the department may seize any wild animal regulated by this chapter pursuant to an administrative order or an emergency administrative order issued by the department.

(a) Authorized personnel of the department may seize any wild animal regulated by this chapter pursuant to an administrative order or an emergency administrative order issued by the department.

(b) In the event that any person is adversely affected by a seizure pursuant to an administrative order or emergency administrative order issued by the department, such person shall be entitled to appeal such order pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 27-1-37 .

(b) In the event that any person is adversely affected by a seizure pursuant to an administrative order or emergency administrative order issued by the department, such person shall be entitled to appeal such order pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 27-1-37 .

(c) Any wild animal seized under this Code section shall be held until the expiration of the time for filing any administrative appeal and, if such an appeal is filed, pending the resolution of this appeal. Reasonable charges for storage shall be paid to the department by the owner and the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure unless it is determined that the seizure was unlawful.

(c) Any wild animal seized under this Code section shall be held until the expiration of the time for filing any administrative appeal and, if such an appeal is filed, pending the resolution of this appeal. Reasonable charges for storage shall be paid to the department by the owner and the person in possession of the wild animal at the time of seizure unless it is determined that the seizure was unlawful.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-36 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-36
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-36
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish in any artificial-lure stream or lake except with an artificial lure or to have any bait or lure other than artificial in possession at such stream or lake. The board shall have the authority to designate streams, lakes, or parts of streams or lakes as artificial-lure streams or lakes and to promulgate rules regarding fishing methods, gear, and size or type of artificial lures that may be used on such streams or lakes.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish in any artificial-lure stream or lake except with an artificial lure or to have any bait or lure other than artificial in possession at such stream or lake. The board shall have the authority to designate streams, lakes, or parts of streams or lakes as artificial-lure streams or lakes and to promulgate rules regarding fishing methods, gear, and size or type of artificial lures that may be used on such streams or lakes.

(b) It shall be unlawful to have in possession while fishing such streams or lakes any bait, lure, landing net, or other gear which may not be lawfully used on such streams or lakes.

(b) It shall be unlawful to have in possession while fishing such streams or lakes any bait, lure, landing net, or other gear which may not be lawfully used on such streams or lakes.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-50 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-50
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-50
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this title to the contrary, it shall be lawful to sell the antlers, hides, and tails of legally taken deer.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-78 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-78
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-78
Status: in_force

Any food fish processing plant shall be governed by the provisions of Article 6 of Chapter 2 of Title 26 as such provisions apply to meat and poultry processing plants.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-260 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-260
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-260
Status: in_force

The Commissioner may revoke any outstanding registration where the holder of the same or any officer or agent of the holder is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department, provided that no registration shall be revoked under this Code section without opportunity for hearing in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-130 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-130
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-130
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner shall have the power to close all or any portion of the salt waters of this state to commercial and noncommercial fishing by species for a period not to exceed six months within a calendar year. Any determination to close the salt waters pursuant to this subsection or to reopen such waters shall be made in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management.

(a) The commissioner shall have the power to close all or any portion of the salt waters of this state to commercial and noncommercial fishing by species for a period not to exceed six months within a calendar year. Any determination to close the salt waters pursuant to this subsection or to reopen such waters shall be made in accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management.

(b) Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit a person from landing in this state any fish or seafood taken in federal waters pursuant to a valid commercial federal permit.

(b) Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit a person from landing in this state any fish or seafood taken in federal waters pursuant to a valid commercial federal permit.

(c) For the purposes of enforcing this article, the department is authorized to zone the salt waters of this state.

(c) For the purposes of enforcing this article, the department is authorized to zone the salt waters of this state.

(d) Public notice of the opening or closing of salt waters as provided in this article shall be given by posting a notice of such opening or closing at the courthouse in each coastal county and by such other means as may appear feasible to inform interested persons of the opening or closing. Such notices shall be posted at least 24 hours prior to any enforcement action taken pursuant to this Code section.

(d) Public notice of the opening or closing of salt waters as provided in this article shall be given by posting a notice of such opening or closing at the courthouse in each coastal county and by such other means as may appear feasible to inform interested persons of the opening or closing. Such notices shall be posted at least 24 hours prior to any enforcement action taken pursuant to this Code section.

(e) In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to prohibit the sale of any or all seafood in this state.

(e) In accordance with current, sound principles of wildlife research and management, the board is authorized to promulgate rules and regulations to prohibit the sale of any or all seafood in this state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-259 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-259
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-259
Status: in_force

(a) The Commissioner may deny registration to: (1) Any applicant with a criminal record; (2) Any applicant who is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department; or (3) A corporation, when any of its officers has a criminal record or is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department.

(a) The Commissioner may deny registration to:

(1) Any applicant with a criminal record;

(1) Any applicant with a criminal record;

(2) Any applicant who is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department; or

(2) Any applicant who is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department; or

(3) A corporation, when any of its officers has a criminal record or is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department.

(3) A corporation, when any of its officers has a criminal record or is found by the Commissioner to have violated any law administered by the department or any regulation or quarantine of the department.

(b) In the case of a partnership, all parties shall be considered applicants for the purpose of this Code section.

(b) In the case of a partnership, all parties shall be considered applicants for the purpose of this Code section.

(c) No registration shall be denied under this article without opportunity for hearing in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”

(c) No registration shall be denied under this article without opportunity for hearing in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-110 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-110
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-110
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person other than the crew of a trawler licensed as provided in Code Section 27-2-8 with a trawler crew license, for purposes of such license, or a person in possession of a valid commercial crabbing license as provided for in Code Section 27-4-150 , for purposes of such license, or a person in possession of a commercial food shrimp cast netting license as provided in Code Section 27-4-205 , for purposes of such license, to engage in commercial fishing in any of the salt waters of this state without first obtaining a commercial fishing license, which shall be carried on his or her person while engaging in such activities. Each license shall be separate and distinct from each other and separate from and in addition to the commercial fishing boat license required by Code Section 27-2-8 .
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-1 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-1
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-1
Status: in_force

This title shall be known and may be cited as the “Game and Fish Code.”
O.C.G.A. § 27-1-28 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 1 / Section 27-1-28
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-1-28
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law, rule, or regulation, it shall be unlawful to hunt, trap, fish, take, possess, or transport any nongame species of wildlife, except that the following species may be taken by any method except those specifically prohibited by law or regulation: (1) Rats; (2) Mice; (3) Coyotes; (4) Armadillos; (5) Groundhogs; (6) Beaver; (7) Fresh-water turtles; (8) Poisonous snakes; (9) Frogs; (10) Spring lizards; (11) Fiddler crabs; (12) Fresh-water crayfish; (13) Fresh-water mussels; and (14) Nutria.

(a) Except as otherwise provided by law, rule, or regulation, it shall be unlawful to hunt, trap, fish, take, possess, or transport any nongame species of wildlife, except that the following species may be taken by any method except those specifically prohibited by law or regulation:

(1) Rats;

(1) Rats;

(2) Mice;

(2) Mice;

(3) Coyotes;

(3) Coyotes;

(4) Armadillos;

(4) Armadillos;

(5) Groundhogs;

(5) Groundhogs;

(6) Beaver;

(6) Beaver;

(7) Fresh-water turtles;

(7) Fresh-water turtles;

(8) Poisonous snakes;

(8) Poisonous snakes;

(9) Frogs;

(9) Frogs;

(10) Spring lizards;

(10) Spring lizards;

(11) Fiddler crabs;

(11) Fiddler crabs;

(12) Fresh-water crayfish;

(12) Fresh-water crayfish;

(13) Fresh-water mussels; and

(13) Fresh-water mussels; and

(14) Nutria.

(14) Nutria.

(b) The nongame species enumerated in subsection (a) of this Code section may be taken by any method except those specifically prohibited by law or regulation.

(b) The nongame species enumerated in subsection (a) of this Code section may be taken by any method except those specifically prohibited by law or regulation.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to authorize the taking of any species which is protected under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, 1 P.L. 93-205 , as amended, or under any state law which has as its purpose the protection of endangered or threatened species.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to authorize the taking of any species which is protected under the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, 1 P.L. 93-205 , as amended, or under any state law which has as its purpose the protection of endangered or threatened species.

1 16 U.S.C.A. § 1531 et seq.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-21 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-21
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-21
Status: in_force

Any property owner or his or her agent shall have the right to petition the department to remove any bear which shall constitute a clear and immediate threat to his or her property. The property owner shall petition the department for such removal on a form containing such information as may be necessary for the proper evaluation and consideration of the application. Removal shall occur only in cases where the department has determined that the removal of the bear is justified. Representatives of the department are authorized to investigate claims of damage and the necessity of removal of the bear prior to taking action on the petition.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-68 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-68
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-68
Status: in_force

It shall be the duty of game wardens to confiscate any trap, pitfall, deadfall, scaffold, catch, snare, net, salt lick, blind pig, baited hook, or other similar device used in violation of the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations and to dispose of same as directed by the commissioner.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-43 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-43
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-43
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to remove the head of any deer until the carcass is processed or surrendered to a storage facility for processing or storage.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-283 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-283
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-283
Status: in_force

(a) Every owner and operator of a fishing location shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section. Such signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location on or near the water and at the location where the fee is paid. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by an owner or operator shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(a) Every owner and operator of a fishing location shall post and maintain signs which contain the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section. Such signs shall be placed in a clearly visible location on or near the water and at the location where the fee is paid. The warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section shall appear on the sign in black letters, with each letter to be a minimum of one inch in height. Every written contract entered into by an owner or operator shall contain in clearly readable print the warning notice specified in subsection (b) of this Code section.

(b) The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall contain the following warning notice: WARNING Under Georgia law, an owner or operator of a fishing location is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant from the inherent risks of fishing, including but not limited to drowning, pursuant to Article 7 of Chapter 4 of Title 27 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.

(b) The signs and contracts described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall contain the following warning notice:

WARNING

Under Georgia law, an owner or operator of a fishing location is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant from the inherent risks of fishing, including but not limited to drowning, pursuant to Article 7 of Chapter 4 of Title 27 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated.

(c) Failure to comply with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this Code section shall prevent an owner or operator from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by this article.

(c) Failure to comply with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this Code section shall prevent an owner or operator from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by this article.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-37 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-37
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-37
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, catfish, and all other species of fish in the freshwaters of the state by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing except as provided in this Code section. Flathead, channel, and blue catfish may be taken by hand without the aid of any device, hook, snare, net, or other artificial instrument and without the aid of any scuba equipment, air hose, or other artificial breathing apparatus between March 1 and July 15 of each year.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, catfish, and all other species of fish in the freshwaters of the state by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing except as provided in this Code section. Flathead, channel, and blue catfish may be taken by hand without the aid of any device, hook, snare, net, or other artificial instrument and without the aid of any scuba equipment, air hose, or other artificial breathing apparatus between March 1 and July 15 of each year.

(b) It shall be unlawful to alter any natural or manmade feature by placing boards, wire, barrels, buckets, or any device or obstruction in any stream or other body of water or to modify any log, hole, or other feature in an attempt to attract or capture fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing or to take fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing from such altered devices. It shall also be unlawful to raise any part of a natural or artificial device out of the water to aid in the hand capture of enclosed fish.

(b) It shall be unlawful to alter any natural or manmade feature by placing boards, wire, barrels, buckets, or any device or obstruction in any stream or other body of water or to modify any log, hole, or other feature in an attempt to attract or capture fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing or to take fish by grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing from such altered devices. It shall also be unlawful to raise any part of a natural or artificial device out of the water to aid in the hand capture of enclosed fish.

(c) Any game fish, except channel and flathead catfish, taken in violation of the provisions of subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section that are in the possession of a person grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing fish shall be prima-facie evidence of taking and possessing fish illegally.

(c) Any game fish, except channel and flathead catfish, taken in violation of the provisions of subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section that are in the possession of a person grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing fish shall be prima-facie evidence of taking and possessing fish illegally.

(d) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing of flathead, channel, or blue catfish in the fresh waters of this state without a resident or nonresident fishing license as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .

(d) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the grabbling, noodling, or hand grabbing of flathead, channel, or blue catfish in the fresh waters of this state without a resident or nonresident fishing license as provided in Code Section 27-2-23 .
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-92 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-92
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-92
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person, other than a carrier who has complied with Code Section 27-3-94 , to remove, ship, or transport wildlife out of this state except under the following conditions:

(1) The person must have in his possession at the time of such removing, shipping, or transporting the proper wildlife license or permit duly issued to such person by the department;

(1) The person must have in his possession at the time of such removing, shipping, or transporting the proper wildlife license or permit duly issued to such person by the department;

(2) The person cannot remove from the state more than the bag or possession limits established by law or regulation;

(2) The person cannot remove from the state more than the bag or possession limits established by law or regulation;

(3) The person shall make a sworn statement, duly attested to by an authorized officer of this state, which statement shall show that the person has lawfully taken such wildlife and that they are not for sale, except as otherwise permitted by the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations, and shall show the number of wildlife being shipped, transported, or removed from the state. One copy of the statement shall be given the carrier, if such wildlife is being transported by carrier, and one shall be attached to the wildlife being shipped, transported, or removed from the state; and

(3) The person shall make a sworn statement, duly attested to by an authorized officer of this state, which statement shall show that the person has lawfully taken such wildlife and that they are not for sale, except as otherwise permitted by the wildlife laws, rules, and regulations, and shall show the number of wildlife being shipped, transported, or removed from the state. One copy of the statement shall be given the carrier, if such wildlife is being transported by carrier, and one shall be attached to the wildlife being shipped, transported, or removed from the state; and

(4) The person shall submit his license or permit and sworn statement to any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or game warden for inspection when requested to do so.

(4) The person shall submit his license or permit and sworn statement to any sheriff, deputy sheriff, or game warden for inspection when requested to do so.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-255 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-255
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-255
Status: in_force

Any person engaged in the sale of domestic fish, except grocery stores, shall apply to the department for an aquaculture registration. The domestic fish of a registered aquaculture producer shall be privately owned subject to regulation by the Department of Natural Resources; provided, however, any person selling “domestic fish” without first obtaining an aquaculture registration shall be considered to be selling “wildlife” or “wild animals” and shall be subject to the provisions of this title governing such sale.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-4 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-4
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-4
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to throw, dump, drain, or allow to pass into any waters of this state which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation any sawdust, dyestuff, oil, chemicals, or other deleterious substances that will or may tend to injure, destroy, or drive away from such waters any fish or aquatic organisms which may inhabit such waters.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to throw, dump, drain, or allow to pass into any waters of this state which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation any sawdust, dyestuff, oil, chemicals, or other deleterious substances that will or may tend to injure, destroy, or drive away from such waters any fish or aquatic organisms which may inhabit such waters.

(b) The state, through the department, may recover damages in a civil action against any person who unlawfully or negligently injures or destroys any fish or aquatic organism in any waters which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation. The measure of damages in such action shall be the amount which will compensate for all the detriment proximately caused by the destruction or injury of such fish or aquatic organism.

(b) The state, through the department, may recover damages in a civil action against any person who unlawfully or negligently injures or destroys any fish or aquatic organism in any waters which belong to the department or which are being utilized by the department for fish propagation. The measure of damages in such action shall be the amount which will compensate for all the detriment proximately caused by the destruction or injury of such fish or aquatic organism.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-10 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-10
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-10
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt, with or without dogs, any wildlife upon any public road in this state. It shall also be unlawful for any person while hunting to discharge any weapon from or across any public road in this state.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to hunt, with or without dogs, any wildlife upon any public road in this state. It shall also be unlawful for any person while hunting to discharge any weapon from or across any public road in this state.

(b) Any person who violates the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $50.00 and not more than $1,000.00 and, in the discretion of the sentencing court, imprisonment for not more than 12 months; provided, however, that such fine shall not be subject to suspension, stay, or probation except that if the court finds that payment of such fine would impose great economic hardship upon the defendant, the court may order such fine paid in installments.

(b) Any person who violates the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $50.00 and not more than $1,000.00 and, in the discretion of the sentencing court, imprisonment for not more than 12 months; provided, however, that such fine shall not be subject to suspension, stay, or probation except that if the court finds that payment of such fine would impose great economic hardship upon the defendant, the court may order such fine paid in installments.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-23 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-23
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-23
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other provision of this title to the contrary, it shall be lawful to sell the tails of legally taken squirrels.
O.C.G.A. § 27-3-152 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 3 / Section 27-3-152
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-3-152
Status: in_force

(a) The superior court of a county may enjoin conduct which would be in violation of Code Section 27-3-151 upon the petition of a person who is affected or who reasonably may be affected by such conduct upon a showing that such conduct is threatened or that such conduct has occurred at a particular location in the past and that it is not unreasonable to expect that under similar circumstances such conduct will be repeated.

(a) The superior court of a county may enjoin conduct which would be in violation of Code Section 27-3-151 upon the petition of a person who is affected or who reasonably may be affected by such conduct upon a showing that such conduct is threatened or that such conduct has occurred at a particular location in the past and that it is not unreasonable to expect that under similar circumstances such conduct will be repeated.

(b) A person who engages in conduct in violation of Code Section 27-3-151 shall be civilly liable to any other person who is adversely affected by such conduct, and any award for damages may include punitive damages. In addition to any other items of special damage, the measure of damages may include expenditures of the affected person for license and permit fees, travel, guides, and special equipment and supplies to the extent that such expenditures were rendered futile by preventing the lawful taking of wildlife.

(b) A person who engages in conduct in violation of Code Section 27-3-151 shall be civilly liable to any other person who is adversely affected by such conduct, and any award for damages may include punitive damages. In addition to any other items of special damage, the measure of damages may include expenditures of the affected person for license and permit fees, travel, guides, and special equipment and supplies to the extent that such expenditures were rendered futile by preventing the lawful taking of wildlife.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-251 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-251
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-251
Status: in_force

This article may be cited as the “Georgia Aquaculture Development Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-22 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-22
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-22
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, hold, or possess in captivity any sick or injured wildlife, except fish, without first obtaining, at no charge, a wildlife rehabilitation permit from the department; provided, however, that such permit shall only be issued to persons determined by the department, based on criteria established by regulation of the board, to be competent and capable of rehabilitating the wildlife for which a permit has been requested; provided, further, that the department shall only issue such a permit when it has determined that the issuance of the permit is in the best interest of the wildlife of this state. If such a permit is issued, the department shall prescribe the term for each such permit and may impose any conditions it determines necessary to ensure adequate public safety and to be in the best interests of the wildlife of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 27-2-4-2 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 2 / Section 27-2-4-2
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-2-4.2
Status: in_force

The department is authorized to issue a courtesy nonresident fishing license, without fee, to any person who is not a resident of this state who is a paralyzed or disabled veteran and who is participating in an organized fishing tournament in this state which is sponsored and conducted by a nonprofit charitable association of paralyzed or disabled veterans, provided that such tournament is approved by the department. Such courtesy nonresident license shall be valid for use only during the specified dates of such tournament and for a maximum of seven days and shall include all requirements and privileges of a nonresident fishing license, including the nonresident trout license, for use only in association with such tournament.
O.C.G.A. § 27-4-5 — GA Code / Title 27 / Chapter 4 / Section 27-4-5
Georgia Code Title 27. Game and Fish § 27-4-5
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, except American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish, by any means other than a pole and line. Except as otherwise provided, it shall be unlawful to take any fish in the fresh waters of this state by any method other than a pole and line, sport trotlines in accordance with Code Section 27-4-32 , set hooks, jugs, bow and arrow in accordance with Code Section 27-4-34 , spears in accordance with Code Section 27-4-33 , minnow seines and minnow traps in accordance with Code Section 27-4-6 , by hand in accordance with Code Section 27-4-37 , and as authorized in Code Section 27-4-91 with regard to commercial fresh-water fishing.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fish for game fish, except American shad, hickory shad, flathead catfish, and channel catfish, by any means other than a pole and line. Except as otherwise provided, it shall be unlawful to take any fish in the fresh waters of this state by any method other than a pole and line, sport trotlines in accordance with Code Section 27-4-32 , set hooks, jugs, bow and arrow in accordance with Code Section 27-4-34 , spears in accordance with Code Section 27-4-33 , minnow seines and minnow traps in accordance with Code Section 27-4-6 , by hand in accordance with Code Section 27-4-37 , and as authorized in Code Section 27-4-91 with regard to commercial fresh-water fishing.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, dip nets and cast nets may be used to take for bait threadfin shad, blueback herring, gizzard shad, and other nongame fish as authorized by the board; and landing nets may be used to land fish legally caught.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, dip nets and cast nets may be used to take for bait threadfin shad, blueback herring, gizzard shad, and other nongame fish as authorized by the board; and landing nets may be used to land fish legally caught.

(c) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, it shall be lawful to use seines, nets, and chemicals in a pond if all the owners of a pond desire that such be done and if a local game warden is notified at least two hours in advance of the use, provided that it shall not be lawful to use such seines, nets, and chemicals in an oxbow lake. For purposes of this Code section, an “oxbow lake” means a lake formed in an abandoned river channel which has become separated from the main stream by a natural change in the river.

(c) Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this Code section, it shall be lawful to use seines, nets, and chemicals in a pond if all the owners of a pond desire that such be done and if a local game warden is notified at least two hours in advance of the use, provided that it shall not be lawful to use such seines, nets, and chemicals in an oxbow lake. For purposes of this Code section, an “oxbow lake” means a lake formed in an abandoned river channel which has become separated from the main stream by a natural change in the river.