Agencies
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Policies for Disabled Outdoor Opportunities
Let's Go Hunting
How does a person with a disability go HUNTING or FISHING in a State Park, Fish or Wildlife Area ? It's easy - let us tell you how....Illinois' makes reasonable accomodations for people with disabilities - check out our "10 Day Rule" below for Hunting & Fishing
Fishing
The State of Illinois has some of the most accessible fishing areas in the country. We have lots of accessible piers and places for bank fishing and hold fishing events throughout the state. You can e-mail Jay Williams for a copy. You can also call the Site Superintendent in your area to get more information. All disabled veterans, resident or non-resident (10% service-connected) or any person with a Class 2O (previously a P2) or a Class 2A card is exempt from a fishing license. This Class 2O or Class 2A card only applies to IL residents.
Hunting
Illinois has some of the best hunting around. From turkey to deer to even geese, we have it. We have so many opportunities for hunters with disabilities to bag that trophy buck.
A policy that Illinois offers people with disabilities is our "10 Day Rule." Though a disabled hunter is exempt from a license (see below) you, like other hunters, MUST go through the permit application process in a timely manner. You will have to obtain a permit (either statewide application or site allocation ). Because a person has a disability DOES NOT exempt them from purchasing a permit. If you are unsure of how to obtain the permit for the site or game you wish to hunt, please call them. After you have received the permit, call the site 10 days prior to your hunt date and they will make reasonable accommodations for you. All disabled veterans, resident or non-resident (10% service-connected) or any person with a Class 2O (previously a P2) or a Class 2A card is exempt from a hunting license. This Class 2O or Class 2A card only applies to IL residents. Also, resident or non-resident disabled veterans are exempt from a habitat stamp.
Information on Hunting / Fishing Exemptions
If you are a Veteran you are exempt from a hunting and fishing license (see above). You are also exempt from purchasing a Habitat stamp. To be exempt you must be able to show proof of disability with a Veteran’s disability card ( at least 10% service connected). This card is available at your local Veteran’s Affairs office.
Card Holders
If you are disabled and possess a Class P2O (previously a P2) or a Class P2A card, you are exempt from a hunting license.
Class 2O and 2A will exempt you from a fishing license.
You are NOT exempt from a Habitat stamp.
You can pick up a P2O or P2A application at your nearest Secretary of State's office.
You will still have to apply and pay for your permits.
E-mail your questions to jay.d.williams@illinois.gov or call 618-435-8138 ext. 130.
For more information on outdoor opportunities and programs for persons with disabilities, please contact us at 618-949-3305. General information about IDNR may be obtained by writing the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Public Services, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702 or calling (217) 782-7454. Deaf and hearing impaired individuals may call IDNR's TTY number (217) 782-9175, or use the Ameritech Relay Number at 1-800-526-0844.