Why can't I shoot a deer in my yard ?

[reds]

Check your local or county laws on discharging a firearm near a dwelling. That may rule out using a gun.

[Mikie]

Just because you're a landowner and exempt from needing a license, doesn't mean you can shoot them anytime. You still have to wait for the legal open season. Therein lies the problem - those rat b*stards will destroy your garden in a heartbeat this time of the year, come hunting season they will disappear.

On the other hand, you know the old saying "Nothing's illegal if you don't get caught"! I hear that if you gut shoot them, there's a good chance they will go someplace else and die.

[Capt. Charlie]

If you live in a "suburban" community with neighbors close by you are out of luck if you want to "eliminate" them. You cannot discharge a weapon (gun/bow) within 450' of an occupied dwelling without the owners permission. You probably don't qualify for the farmers "deer deprevation" permit which allows you to shoot them year round, on your property. You should contact your local DNR office for your options.
Lowes carries a pretty good repellant which you spray on your plants and it does work. I use it and we have a pretty healthy deer population around here. I shot 15 last year within one mile of my house! The only problem is that you have to reapply it after heavy rain. In time the deer become accustomed to the fact that your stuff tastes bad and they leave you alone. I've used it for years and it does work.
Good luck!!

[hippie]

No one says you "can't" shoot a deer but if you do you'll have the fine to pay!

[Ed D]

Get a big spray bottle. Fill it 3/4 with water and 1/4 with whole milk.

Spray the trees and shrubs with it once a week.

The deer will leave you alone.

Honest, it works...

[hippie]

If the deer are eating your shrubs, spray with water & a small amount of soap. Then sprinkle red pepper on the leaves.