Have you ever observed a coyote lingering in or around your yard and questioned the legality of shooting them in Michigan?

See Also: Michigan Makes the Top 10 List of Most Bigfoot Sightings in the U.S.

This came up in a recent Facebook group discussion, with members sharing different opinions on the applicable law. So, we decided to look into Michigan's regulations on killing coyotes.

Coyotes can be a real nuisance and dangerous if you have small pets that tend to go outside. It doesn't happen very often but a coyote will snatch up your pet if the opportunity presents itself.

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Can You Legally Shoot a Coyote On Your Property in Michigan?

Yes, you can legally shoot a coyote on your property in the state of Michigan. According to Michigan.gov, if problems exist outside regular hunting or trapping seasons, coyotes can be killed without a license on private land by the landowner or a designee if the coyote is doing or about to do damage to private property, pets, livestock, or humans.

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You may not realize it but it's always open hunting season on coyotes in Michigan. However, some laws vary depending on where you live, so be sure to check on the hunting laws in your community before you kill a coyote.

What type of Guns Can You Use for Coyote Hunting in Michigan?

Michigan law states that you can use a 269 caliber or smaller, or shotgun with loads other than buckshot larger than number 3, slug, or cut shell.

Michigan's Mandatory Hunting Violation Penalties

Thinking of poaching? Don't. Not sure if you're breaking the law? Check with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) (for hunting laws, click here). Here are 5 violations that come with mandatory penalties, including hefty fines and significant time behind bars.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

More Michigan Hunting Laws and Regulations You Should Know

Heads up hunters new and old, these are just a few Michigan hunting laws and regulations you may have not considered.

Gallery Credit: Jacob Harrison

9 Animals That Are, Surprisingly, Legal to Own in Michigan