MT Wildlife Watchers Now Required to Purchase Conservation License
Beginning July 1, 2023, a Montana Conservation License is now required to access most state lands including fishing access sites (FAS), wildlife management areas (WMA), and wildlife habitat protection areas (WHPA). Montana State Parks do not require a Conservation License.
A new law was passed by the 2023 Montana Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Greg
Gianforte. It simplifies existing laws for state land users, and it provides a way for users who
don’t buy hunting, fishing, and trapping licenses to help pay for the maintenance and
conservation work on state lands.
A Conservation License lasts from March 1 to the end of February the following year, which is considered the FWP license year. During the first year of the license requirement, FWP will educate and inform users of the requirement. Beginning March 1, 2024, recreationists not holding a Conservation License may be issued a written warning, upon a first offense. Subsequent offenses may be cited.
Conservation License Costs
Resident: $8
Youth 12-17 Resident: $4
Senior 62+ Resident: $4
Nonresident: $10
How to Apply:
You can purchase a Conservation License ONLINE. A valid driver’s license or photo ID are required. You may also purchase a license at any FWP office.
