Senate Bill 960 establishes a requirement for individuals to obtain a hiking permit from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) before traveling by foot on groomed hiking trails on state-owned land. The bill mandates that hikers carry proof of their permit at all times and present it to DNR officials or law enforcement upon request. Certain exceptions are included, allowing individuals to hike without a permit if their activity is incidental to another authorized activity, if they possess a state trail pass, or if they are participating in an organized event. The bill also clarifies that a hiking permit does not permit access to areas where hiking is prohibited.

The DNR is tasked with issuing hiking permits, which will be valid for the calendar year and require a fee of $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 12 and older, and no fee for children under 12. The bill allows the DNR to appoint agents or contract with third parties to facilitate the permit issuance process through a statewide automated system. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the collection of issuing fees and establishes a payment system for agents involved in the permit process. The bill amends existing statutes to incorporate these new requirements and create a framework for the management of hiking permits.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 20.370(9)(hv), 20.370, 23.47(2), 23.47