Rifles allowed for deer hunting in Goodhue County starting this fall

The Board of Commissioners has decided not to introduce an ordinance to maintain the shotgun‑only firearms restriction for deer hunting in the Goodhue County. Beginning with the 2026 hunting season, and consistent with state regulations, hunters in Goodhue County will be permitted to use any legal rifle or shotgun for deer hunting where firearms hunting is allowed.

During the 2025 legislative session, the Minnesota Legislature eliminated the southeast shotgun‑only zone for deer hunting. Under the new law, counties may choose to pass an ordinance to remain shotgun‑only. After discussing the issue at their annual planning workshop in February, the Goodhue County Board determined that it would allow the change to stand, which has the support of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The DNR has stated it has no safety or wildlife‑management concerns with the elimination of the shotgun zone and supports counties making decisions that best fit their communities. Updated statewide information will be available on the DNR’s website and in the 2026 hunting regulations publications.