DNR - Hunting Access Program (HAP)

Hunting Access Program

Adult and child hunter talking with landowner.

About the Hunting Access Program Michigan's Hunting Access Program (HAP) was created in 1977 to increase public hunting opportunities in southern Michigan where 97 percent of the land base is privately owned. This program is now one of the oldest dedicated private lands public access programs in the nation.

Providing access to quality hunting lands close to urban properties is a key component to offering additional hunting opportunities, as well as attracting new and retaining current hunters.

HAP provides financial incentives to landowners in southern Michigan who allow hunters access to their lands. Using funds from a new federal grant, the DNR plans to significantly expand HAP.

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Add this page to your online favorites - www.michigan.gov/hap

The new look of HAP

Hunters may notice a new sign on HAP lands. This is because HAP has recently updated the look of its signs. The image attempts to capture the look and feel of what the HAP program strives to do: connect hunters with hunting lands through mutually beneficial agreements with farmers and private landowners.

Returning from a successful hunt on a participating mid-Michigan Hunting Access Program farm. Note the yellow "Safety Zone" sign in the background, clearly depicting the boundary of the HAP hunting area.

Expanding opportunities for southern Michigan hunters (link to News Article)

Michigan's Hunting Access Program (HAP) - a long-time Department of Natural Resources offering that provides hunters with more places to hunt - had been slipping into oblivion in recent years, but seems to have found a new lease on life. In fact, the latest news is pretty encouraging. Link to full article...

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Attention Hunters:

HAP lands are privately owned lands for which the landowners have agreed to allow public access. All hunters are responsible to know and understand the rules of the program, as well as rules of each property and state and federal regulations. Please treat these privately owned lands with respect and observe the following:

Hunting is available each day on a First Come, First Served basis. You may not register prior to the day of hunting. All guests actively hunting are required to register EVERY time you visit the parcel.
You may not exceed the number of hunters permitted to hunt at any one time. See HAP Digest or registration folder for details.
Hunting is the ONLY activity allowed on HAP lands.
Types of hunting allowed and seasons HAP farms are open may vary. Please review the HAP Digest, registration folder or HAP website for details.
No driving on HAP lands.
No permanent blinds or tree stands. No nails or screws in trees.

For a complete listing of HAP rules, please refer to the 'Hunting Access Program (HAP) Information' and '2012-2013 Michigan Hunting Access Program (HAP) Digest - Public Hunting on Private Lands' links below.