WHITEHALL & MONTAGUE, MI — As deer populations continue to rise across West Michigan, local communities like Whitehall and Montague have taken different approaches to managing urban deer conflicts. From vehicle collisions and landscape damage to ecological strain, city leaders are balancing public safety with responsible wildlife management. Here’s where each city stands—and what residents and hunters should know.
Whitehall: A Structured Archery Hunting Program
Whitehall permits regulated archery-only deer hunting within city limits through a managed program that runs during Michigan’s urban archery season, typically from mid-September through January 31.
Hunters must:
- Obtain a valid Michigan DNR archery license
- Apply for a City of Whitehall hunting permit
- Hunt only on approved private property with landowner consent
- Use elevated tree stands
- Stay 150 feet from buildings and 100 feet from public roads
- Limit shots to 50 yards
- Submit harvest data to the city after the season
The program is limited, safety-focused, and intended to reduce deer-related issues such as car accidents, property damage, and over-browsing of native vegetation.
To participate or learn more, visit cityofwhitehall.org or call (231) 894-4048.
Montague: New Urban Hunting Ordinance Allows Bow Hunts in Designated Areas
In a notable update to its local laws (as of November 2024), the City of Montague now allows controlled bow hunting within city limits through an approved and regulated program. This marks a shift from its previously non-lethal-only strategy.
Key features of Montague’s ordinance include:
Designated Hunting Areas (DMAs)
- Hunting is only permitted on authorized parcels of at least 6 contiguous acres, designated annually by the City Council.
- Two adjacent landowners may apply together if individual parcels don’t meet the acreage requirement.
- Both public and private land may be included in DMAs with proper approvals.
Permit Process and Requirements
- Hunters must be at least 18 years old, state-licensed, and apply for a city-issued permit not exceeding two weeks in duration.
- Permits require a fee, background check, and approval from the Chief of Police and City Council.
- Landowner consent is mandatory for hunting on private property.
- Hunters must:
- Use elevated temporary stands
- Shoot no more than 50 yards
- Stay 150 feet from buildings, streets, or DMA boundaries
- Never carry an uncased bow within 100 feet of a building or road
- Hunters must report the number of deer taken and observed after each season.
- A second permit to harvest a buck may be granted after proof of a successful antlerless harvest under the initial permit.
Oversight and Flexibility
- The City of Montague retains the right to modify the number of hunters, selection criteria, or residency preferences at any time.
This ordinance provides a path forward for Montague to manage its urban deer population while maintaining strict safety and accountability standards.
To apply or review the full ordinance, visit cityofmontague.org or contact Montague City Hall.
Deer Feeding Bans in Both Cities
Both Whitehall and Montague have banned the intentional feeding of deer, citing concerns over unsustainable herd growth, disease transmission (such as Lyme disease), and increased conflicts in residential areas. These bans do not apply to:
- Naturally growing vegetation
- Bird feeders (elevated and not ground-scattered)
- Gardens or landscaping
- Public employees performing official wildlife or safety duties
Whitehall and Montague have taken proactive steps to address the challenges posed by growing urban deer populations. With structured, regulated archery hunting programs now in place, these cities are helping balance public safety, environmental health, and responsible wildlife management.
Surrounding municipalities may follow different approaches—some relying on state regulations, while others are exploring their options. Urban hunting rules can vary significantly by location.
For more information or to participate in a local program, please contact your municipality directly to learn about ordinances, application processes, and permitted hunting areas. Staying informed ensures you’re following all safety and legal requirements—while contributing to sustainable deer management in your community.
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