NRS: CHAPTER 501 - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

[Rev. 6/29/2024 4:25:50 PM--2023]

TITLE 45 - WILDLIFE

CHAPTER 501 - ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

GENERAL PROVISIONS

NRS 501.001 Definitions.

NRS 501.003 “Alternative livestock” defined.

NRS 501.005 “Big game mammal” defined.

NRS 501.010 “Board” defined.

NRS 501.013 “Chumming” defined.

NRS 501.015 “Closed season” defined.

NRS 501.020 “Commission” defined.

NRS 501.023 “County” defined.

NRS 501.024 “Department” defined.

NRS 501.026 “Director” defined.

NRS 501.030 “Fishes,” “fishing,” “fished” and “to fish” defined.

NRS 501.035 “Fur-bearing mammal” defined.

NRS 501.037 “Game amphibian” defined.

NRS 501.045 “Game fish” defined.

NRS 501.046 “Game mammal” defined.

NRS 501.047 “Game warden” defined.

NRS 501.050 “Hunting,” “hunted” and “to hunt” defined.

NRS 501.055 “Migratory game birds” defined.

NRS 501.065 “Open season” defined.

NRS 501.088 “Took,” “taken,” “taking” and “to take” defined.

NRS 501.089 “Trap” defined.

NRS 501.090 “Trapping,” “trapped” and “to trap” defined.

NRS 501.095 “Upland game birds” defined.

NRS 501.096 “Vessel” defined.

NRS 501.097 “Wildlife” defined.

NRS 501.100 Legislative declaration regarding wildlife.

NRS 501.102 Legislative declaration regarding hunting.

NRS 501.105 Commission to establish policies and adopt regulations.

NRS 501.110 Classification of wildlife.

NRS 501.115 Acceptance of federal aid in projects for restoration of wildlife pursuant to the Pittman-Robertson Act.

NRS 501.117 Acceptance of federal aid in projects for restoration and management of fish pursuant to the Dingell-Johnson Act.

NRS 501.118 Manner of publication of order or regulation regarding seasons, bag limits or hours.

NRS 501.119 Collection of data from hunters, trappers and anglers; penalty for failure to comply; immunity from prosecution on basis of information supplied.

NRS 501.121 Contact information to be posted on guzzler.

BOARD OF WILDLIFE COMMISSIONERS

NRS 501.167 Creation; number and appointment of members.

NRS 501.171 Appointment and qualifications of members; officers.

NRS 501.172 Removal of member from office.

NRS 501.177 Meetings; quorum.

NRS 501.179 Compensation of members.

NRS 501.181 Duties; regulations.

NRS 501.1812 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Definitions.

NRS 501.1814 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Establishment and administration of system; assessment and deletion of points.

NRS 501.1816 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Reduction of accumulated points; suspension or revocation of licenses, permits or privileges.

NRS 501.1817 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Judicial review of suspension or revocation of license, permit or privilege.

NRS 501.1818 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Regulations.

NRS 501.182 Cooperative agreements with adjoining states.

NRS 501.243 Enforcement of chapter 488 of NRS; regulations; cooperative agreements.

COUNTY ADVISORY BOARD TO MANAGE WILDLIFE

NRS 501.260 Creation; number of members; officers.

NRS 501.265 Appointment of members; vacancies.

NRS 501.270 Qualifications of members.

NRS 501.275 Appointment and terms of members.

NRS 501.285 Compensation of members.

NRS 501.290 Meetings.

NRS 501.293 Removal of member.

NRS 501.297 Duties: Evaluating local opinion and advising Commission.

NRS 501.303 Duties: Submission of recommendations; attendance of chair or other members at meetings of Commission.

NRS 501.310 Fund for advisory board.

NRS 501.320 Budgets.

NRS 501.325 Duties of county auditor and county treasurer.

DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE

NRS 501.331 Creation; administration of laws.

NRS 501.333 Director: Appointment; qualifications; classification.

NRS 501.337 Director: Duties.

NRS 501.339 Director: Exercise of powers of Commission in emergency; designation of deputies and game wardens.

NRS 501.341 Offices.

NRS 501.343 Collection and dissemination of certain information; publications.

NRS 501.344 Confidentiality of information obtained by Department.

NRS 501.346 Fees for advertising in printed materials or on website of Department.

NRS 501.349 Game wardens.

NRS 501.351 Cooperative and reciprocal agreements.

NRS 501.352 Reporting of suspected communicable diseases in wildlife.

NRS 501.3525 Taking of wildlife by employee of Department.

NRS 501.3535 Fences constructed by Department: Requirements concerning construction and maintenance.

NRS 501.354 Receipt, deposit and expenditure of money.

NRS 501.356 Wildlife Account.

NRS 501.3575 Wildlife Heritage Account.

NRS 501.3585 Wildlife Trust Fund.

NRS 501.359 Wildlife Imprest Account.

NRS 501.361 Petty Cash Account.

NRS 501.363 Change Account.

ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

NRS 501.375 Powers and duties of game wardens, sheriffs and other peace officers.

NRS 501.376 Unlawful killing or possession of bighorn sheep, mountain goat, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn antelope, mountain lion or black bear; exceptions; criminal penalties.

NRS 501.3765 Unlawful activities concerning traps, snares or similar devices owned by another person; criminal penalties.

NRS 501.377 Unlawful to remove, tamper with or alter tag placed on wildlife or equipment seized as evidence.

NRS 501.379 Unlawful sales of wildlife or importation of game mammals, game birds or game amphibians; exception.

NRS 501.381 Unlawful sale of game fish.

NRS 501.382 Unlawful feeding of big game mammal; penalties; exceptions.

NRS 501.383 Unlawful vandalism of sign or notice erected by Department.

NRS 501.384 Unlawful possession of certain wildlife from another state or country.

NRS 501.3845 Unlawful to bring into this State or possess carcasses or any part of carcasses of certain animals susceptible to chronic wasting disease from another state, territory or country; exceptions; destruction or removal.

NRS 501.385 Unlawful acts; criminal penalties.

NRS 501.3855 Civil penalties.

NRS 501.3857 Forfeitures.

NRS 501.386 Citation of violators.

NRS 501.3865 Failure to appear by holder of license, tag or permit.

NRS 501.3867 Failure to appear by person who does not hold license, tag or permit.

NRS 501.387 Penalties concerning licenses; confiscation and disposal of wildlife.

NRS 501.388 Revocation of license and of privilege to apply for big game tag on conviction of certain violations.

NRS 501.389 Sale, donation or retention of equipment seized as evidence.

NRS 501.395 Rewards.

_________

GENERAL PROVISIONS

NRS 501.001 Definitions. As used in this title, unless the context otherwise requires, the words and terms defined in NRS 501.003 to 501.097, inclusive, have the meanings ascribed to them in those sections.

(Added to NRS by 2007, 1796; A 2013, 1001)

NRS 501.003 “Alternative livestock” defined. “Alternative livestock” means the following species, including subspecies, of the family Cervidae, if they are born and reared in captivity and raised on private property to produce meat or other by-products of animals or as breeding stock to produce alternative livestock:

1. Fallow deer (Dama dama).

2. Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus).

(Added to NRS by 1993, 429; A 2005, 205; 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.005 “Big game mammal” defined. Except as otherwise provided in NRS 501.382, “big game mammal” means any game mammal so classified by Commission regulation.

(Added to NRS by 1991, 258; A 2007, 1796; 2013, 1020)

NRS 501.010 “Board” defined. “Board” means the county advisory board to manage wildlife.

[Part 5:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.05]—(NRS A 1985, 1349; 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.013 “Chumming” defined. “Chumming” means the placing in the water of fish, parts of fish or other material upon which fish feed, for the purpose of attracting fish to a particular area in order that they may be taken.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1350; A 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.015 “Closed season” defined. “Closed season” means all periods except those designated as “open season.” During any such season it is unlawful to fish, to hunt game mammals or game birds, or to hunt or trap fur-bearing mammals. There is no closed season on those species of wild mammals or wild birds classified as unprotected.

[Part 6:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1951, 544]—(NRS A 1969, 1345; 1991, 258; 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.020 “Commission” defined. “Commission” means the Board of Wildlife Commissioners.

[Part 5:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.05]—(NRS A 1979, 890; 1997, 2532; 2007, 1796; 2011, 2479)

NRS 501.023 “County” defined. “County,” when appearing alone or in the reference framework of county advisory board to manage wildlife, board of county commissioners or any county officer, includes and applies to Carson City.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1350; A 1985, 1349; 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.024 “Department” defined. “Department” means the Department of Wildlife.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1520; A 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.026 “Director” defined. “Director” means the Director of the Department.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 1520; A 2007, 1796)

NRS 501.030 “Fishes,” “fishing,” “fished” and “to fish” defined. The words “to fish” and their derivatives, “fishes,” “fishing” and “fished,” mean catching, taking, capturing, killing, injuring or crippling of a fish or game amphibian, and every attempt to do so.

[4:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.04]—(NRS A 1969, 1345; 1993, 66; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.035 “Fur-bearing mammal” defined. “Fur-bearing mammal” means any mammal so classified by Commission regulation.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 360; 1969, 1345; 1991, 258; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.037 “Game amphibian” defined. “Game amphibian” means any amphibian so classified by Commission regulation.

(Added to NRS by 1971, 1538; A 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.045 “Game fish” defined. “Game fish” means any fish so classified by Commission regulation.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 361; 1969, 1345; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.046 “Game mammal” defined. “Game mammal” means any mammal so classified by Commission regulation.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 361; 1969, 1345; 1991, 258; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.047 “Game warden” defined. “Game warden” means any person authorized by the Director to enforce the provisions of this title and of chapter 488 of NRS.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1350; A 1993, 1653; 2003, 1521; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.050 “Hunting,” “hunted” and “to hunt” defined. The words “to hunt” and their derivatives, “hunting” and “hunted,” mean to search for, pursue or attract any wildlife for the purpose and with the means of capturing, injuring or killing that wildlife, every attempt to capture, injure or kill wildlife, and every act of assistance to any other person in capturing, injuring or killing that wildlife.

[Part 2:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.02]—(NRS A 1969, 1346; 1991, 258; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.055 “Migratory game birds” defined. “Migratory game birds” means any birds so classified by Commission regulation.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 361; 1969, 1346; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.065 “Open season” defined. “Open season” means that period designated pursuant to the provisions of this title during which it is legal to fish or to hunt game mammals or game birds or to hunt or to trap fur-bearing mammals. The period includes the first day and last day designated. There is no open season on those species of wildlife classified as protected.

[Part 6:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1951, 544]—(NRS A 1969, 1346; 1991, 258; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.088 “Took,” “taken,” “taking” and “to take” defined. The words “to take” and their derivatives, “took,” “taken” and “taking,” when used in reference to wildlife, mean to kill, capture, shoot, trap, catch, wound, possess, collect, seine, snare or net, and every attempt to do so.

(Added to NRS by 1993, 133; A 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.089 “Trap” defined. “Trap” means a device that is designed, built or made to close upon or hold fast any portion of an animal. The term does not include any device that is designed, built or made to close upon or hold fast any vertebrate pest as defined in NRS 555.005.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 1001; A 2017, 1999)

NRS 501.090 “Trapping,” “trapped” and “to trap” defined. The words “to trap” and their derivatives, “trapping” and “trapped,” mean to set or operate any device, mechanism or contraption that is designed, built or made to close upon or hold fast any animal and every act of assistance to any person in so doing.

[3:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.03]—(NRS A 1969, 1346; 1991, 258; 2007, 1797; 2017, 1999)

NRS 501.095 “Upland game birds” defined. “Upland game birds” means any birds so classified by Commission regulation.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 361; 1969, 1347; 2007, 1797)

NRS 501.096 “Vessel” defined. “Vessel” means every kind of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water, which is used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.

(Added to NRS by 1979, 899; A 2007, 1798)

NRS 501.097 “Wildlife” defined. “Wildlife” means any wild mammal, wild bird, fish, reptile, amphibian, mollusk or crustacean found naturally in a wild state, whether indigenous to Nevada or not and whether raised in captivity or not.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1350; A 1987, 560; 1991, 259; 2007, 1798)

NRS 501.100 Legislative declaration regarding wildlife.

1. Wildlife in this State not domesticated and in its natural habitat is part of the natural resources belonging to the people of the State of Nevada.

2. The preservation, protection, management and restoration of wildlife within the State contribute immeasurably to the aesthetic, recreational and economic aspects of these natural resources.

[Part 8:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.08]—(NRS A 1969, 1347)

NRS 501.102 Legislative declaration regarding hunting. The Legislature declares that hunting permitted by law in this State:

1. Is a valuable activity in the management of game mammals and game birds.

2. Results in financial support for conservation programs that benefit many species, including nongame wildlife.

3. Is an excellent source of food, recreational opportunities and employment.

4. Contributes significantly to the economy of this State and the quality of life of its citizens.

5. Provides a beneficial use for firearms, archery equipment and other legal weapons used to take game mammals and game birds, following the pioneer spirit of Nevada.

(Added to NRS by 1993, 1359)

NRS 501.105 Commission to establish policies and adopt regulations. The Commission shall establish policies and adopt regulations necessary to the preservation, protection, management and restoration of wildlife and its habitat. In establishing such policies and adopting such regulations, the Commission must first consider the recommendations of the Department, the county advisory boards to manage wildlife and other persons who present their views at an open meeting of the Commission.

[7:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.07]—(NRS A 1969, 1347; 1971, 1381; 2015, 956)

NRS 501.110 Classification of wildlife.

1. For the purposes of this title, wildlife must be classified as follows:

(a) Wild mammals, which must be further classified as either game mammals, fur-bearing mammals, protected mammals or unprotected mammals.

(b) Wild birds, which must be further classified as either game birds, protected birds or unprotected birds. Game birds must be further classified as upland game birds or migratory game birds.

(d) Reptiles, which must be further classified as either protected reptiles or unprotected reptiles.

(e) Amphibians, which must be further classified as either game amphibians, protected amphibians or unprotected amphibians.

(f) Mollusks, which must be further classified as either protected mollusks or unprotected mollusks.

(g) Crustaceans, which must be further classified as either protected crustaceans or unprotected crustaceans.

2. Protected wildlife may be further classified as either sensitive, threatened or endangered.

3. Each species of wildlife must be placed in a classification by regulation of the Commission and, when it is in the public interest to do so, species may be moved from one classification to another.

[Part 1:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.01]—(NRS A 1959, 361; 1969, 1347; 1971, 1381; 1977, 76; 1987, 560; 1991, 259)

NRS 501.115 Acceptance of federal aid in projects for restoration of wildlife pursuant to the Pittman-Robertson Act.

1. The State of Nevada hereby assents to the provisions of that certain Act of Congress commonly known and referred to as the Pittman-Robertson Act, being c. 899, 50 Stat. 917, approved September 2, 1937, and also designated as 16 U.S.C. §§ 669-669j, providing federal aid to states in wildlife restoration projects.

2. The Commission shall do any and all things necessary to obtain for the State of Nevada the benefits provided in the Act of Congress.

[1:92:1947] + [2:92:1947]—(NRS A 1995, 2584)

NRS 501.117 Acceptance of federal aid in projects for restoration and management of fish pursuant to the Dingell-Johnson Act.

1. The State of Nevada hereby assents to the provisions of the Act of Congress known as the Dingell-Johnson Act, being c. 658, 64 Stat. 430, approved August 9, 1950, 16 U.S.C. §§ 777 to 777k, inclusive, providing federal aid to states in fish restoration and management projects.

2. The Commission shall do all things necessary to obtain for the State of Nevada the benefits provided by such Act of Congress.

(Added to NRS by 1961, 194; A 1995, 2584)

NRS 501.118 Manner of publication of order or regulation regarding seasons, bag limits or hours. Whenever the Commission is required to publish any official order or regulation regarding open or closed seasons, bag limits or hours, it shall publish once in each case, in a newspaper of general circulation in the State of Nevada or in the locality to which the order or regulation applies a notice of intention to establish the order or regulation at an open meeting to be held on a date no sooner than 10 days following the publication.

[Part 6.5:101:1947; added 1955, 74]—(NRS A 1969, 1551; 1975, 1413; 1977, 77; 1995, 134)

NRS 501.119 Collection of data from hunters, trappers and anglers; penalty for failure to comply; immunity from prosecution on basis of information supplied.

1. The Department is authorized to determine methods of obtaining necessary data from hunters, trappers and anglers relative to their activities and success.

2. The methods may include return of reports attached to licenses and tags or questionnaires addressed to license holders.

3. Failure to return such a report or questionnaire within the period specified by regulation of the Commission or the submission of any false statement thereon is cause for the Commission to:

(a) Deny the person the right to acquire any license provided under this title for a period of 1 year; or

(b) Levy an administrative fine of $50 against the person.

4. Any statement made on such a report or questionnaire may not be the basis for prosecution for any indicated violations of other sections of this title.

[10b:101:1947; added 1951, 494; A 1953, 675]—(NRS A 1969, 1358; 1971, 1381; 1987, 1448; 1993, 1653; 2003, 1521)

NRS 501.121 Contact information to be posted on guzzler.

1. Each guzzler must have posted on it a notice providing the telephone number and any other contact information which may be used to notify the person or agency that placed the guzzler if the guzzler is in disrepair.

2. As used in this section, “guzzler” means any artificial basin that collects or is designed and constructed to collect precipitation specifically for use by any wildlife.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 504)

BOARD OF WILDLIFE COMMISSIONERS

NRS 501.167 Creation; number and appointment of members. The Board of Wildlife Commissioners, consisting of nine members appointed by the Governor, is hereby created.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1557; A 1977, 1229; 1979, 891; 1989, 2191)

NRS 501.171 Appointment and qualifications of members; officers.

1. A county advisory board to manage wildlife shall submit written nominations for appointments to the Commission upon the request of the Governor and may submit nominations at any other time.

2. After consideration of the written nominations submitted by a county advisory board to manage wildlife and any additional candidates for appointment to the Commission, the Governor shall appoint to the Commission:

(a) One member who is actively engaged in and possesses experience and expertise in advocating issues relating to conservation;

(b) One member who is actively engaged in farming;

(d) One member who represents the interests of the general public; and

(e) Five members who during at least 3 of the 4 years immediately preceding their appointment held a resident license to fish or hunt, or both, in Nevada.

3. The Governor shall not appoint to the Commission any person who has been convicted of:

(a) A felony or gross misdemeanor for a violation of NRS 501.376;

(b) A gross misdemeanor for a violation of NRS 502.060;

(d) Two or more violations of the provisions of chapters 501 to 504, inclusive, of NRS,

Ê during the previous 10 years.

4. Not more than three members may be from the same county whose population is 700,000 or more, not more than two members may be from the same county whose population is 100,000 or more but less than 700,000, and not more than one member may be from the same county whose population is less than 100,000.

5. The Commission shall annually select a Chair and a Vice Chair from among its members. A person shall not serve more than two consecutive terms as Chair.

[Part 9:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.09]—(NRS A 1969, 341, 1546; 1977, 1229; 1979, 891; 1989, 2191; 1995, 897, 2584; 2003, 2535; 2009, 444; 2011, 1293, 1639)

NRS 501.172 Removal of member from office.

1. A member of the Commission may be removed from office for just cause.

2. A member of the Commission must be removed from office for:

(a) A conviction of a felony or gross misdemeanor for a violation of NRS 501.376;

(b) A conviction of a gross misdemeanor for a violation of NRS 502.060;

(d) Two or more convictions of violating the provisions of chapters 501 to 504, inclusive, of NRS.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 896; A 2003, 2536; 2009, 445)

NRS 501.177 Meetings; quorum.

1. The Commission may hold not more than nine meetings regularly each year based on need and the requests submitted by the county advisory boards to manage wildlife.

2. Special meetings of the Commission may be held at such times and places as the Commission deems proper.

3. Five members of the Commission constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business which may come before the Commission.

[Part 9:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.09]—(NRS A 1969, 1547; 1979, 891; 1981, 607; 1983, 1446; 1989, 2192; 1995, 2585)

NRS 501.179 Compensation of members.

1. Members of the Commission are entitled to receive a salary of not more than $80 per day, as fixed by the Commission, while performing official duties for the Commission.

2. While engaged in the business of the Commission, each member and employee of the Commission is entitled to receive the per diem allowance and travel expenses provided for state officers and employees generally.

3. Compensation and expenses must be paid from the Wildlife Account within the State General Fund.

[Part 9:101:1947; A 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.09]—(NRS A 1957, 160; 1969, 1547; 1975, 299; 1979, 891; 1981, 1986; 1985, 432; 1989, 1717; 2011, 3146; 2015, 91)

NRS 501.181 Duties; regulations. The Commission shall:

1. Establish broad policies for:

(a) The protection, propagation, restoration, transplanting, introduction and management of wildlife in this State.

(b) The promotion of the safety of persons using or property used in the operation of vessels on the waters of this State.

2. Guide the Department in its administration and enforcement of the provisions of this title and of chapter 488 of NRS by the establishment of such policies.

3. Establish policies for areas of interest including:

(a) The management of big and small game mammals, upland and migratory game birds, fur-bearing mammals, game fish, and protected and unprotected mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians.

(b) The management and control of predatory wildlife.

(c) The acquisition of lands, water rights and easements and other property for the management, propagation, protection and restoration of wildlife.

(d) The entry, access to, and occupancy and use of such property, including leases of grazing rights, sales of agricultural products and requests by the Director to the State Land Registrar for the sale of timber if the sale does not interfere with the use of the property on which the timber is located for wildlife management or for hunting or fishing thereon.

(e) The control of nonresident hunters.

(f) The introduction, transplanting or exporting of wildlife.

(g) Cooperation with federal, state and local agencies on wildlife and boating programs.

(h) The revocation of licenses issued pursuant to this title to any person who is convicted of a violation of any provision of this title or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto.

4. Establish regulations necessary to carry out the provisions of this title and of chapter 488 of NRS, including:

(a) Seasons for hunting game mammals and game birds, for hunting or trapping fur-bearing mammals and for fishing, the daily and possession limits, the manner and means of taking wildlife, including, but not limited to, the sex, size or other physical differentiation for each species, and, when necessary for management purposes, the emergency closing or extending of a season, reducing or increasing of the bag or possession limits on a species, or the closing of any area to hunting, fishing or trapping. If, in establishing any regulations pursuant to this subsection, the Commission rejects the recommendations of a county advisory board to manage wildlife with regard to the length of seasons for fishing, hunting and trapping or the bag or possession limits applicable within the respective county, the Commission shall provide to the county advisory board to manage wildlife at the meeting an explanation of the Commission’s decision to reject the recommendations and, as soon as practicable after the meeting, a written explanation of the Commission’s decision to reject the recommendations. Any regulations relating to the closure of a season must be based upon scientific data concerning the management of wildlife. The data upon which the regulations are based must be collected or developed by the Department.

(b) The manner of using, attaching, filling out, punching, inspecting, validating or reporting tags.

(c) The delineation of game management units embracing contiguous territory located in more than one county, irrespective of county boundary lines.

(d) The number of licenses issued for big game and, if necessary, other game species.

5. Adopt regulations requiring the Department to make public, before official delivery, its proposed responses to any requests by federal agencies for its comment on drafts of statements concerning the environmental effect of proposed actions or regulations affecting public lands.

6. Adopt regulations:

(a) Governing the provisions of the permit required by NRS 502.390 and for the issuance, renewal and revocation of such a permit.

(b) Establishing the method for determining the amount of an assessment, and the time and manner of payment, necessary for the collection of the assessment required by NRS 502.390.

7. Designate those portions of wildlife management areas for big game mammals that are of special concern for the regulation of the importation, possession and propagation of alternative livestock pursuant to NRS 576.129.

8. Adopt regulations governing the trapping of fur-bearing mammals in a residential area of a county whose population is 100,000 or more.

9. Adopt regulations prescribing the circumstances under which a person, regardless of whether the person has obtained a valid tag issued by the Department, may assist in the killing and retrieval of a wounded big game mammal by another person who:

(a) Is a paraplegic, has had one or both legs amputated or has suffered a paralysis of one or both legs which severely impedes the person’s walking; and

(b) Has obtained a valid tag issued by the Department for hunting that animal.

10. In establishing any policy or adopting any regulations pursuant to this section, first consider the recommendations of the Department, the county advisory boards to manage wildlife and other persons who present their views at an open meeting of the Commission.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1557; A 1977, 1229; 1979, 891; 1985, 1349; 1989, 729, 1268; 1991, 259, 2283, 2289; 1993, 429, 816, 1654; 1995, 544; 1997, 2598; 2003, 1521, 2536; 2011, 1024; 2015, 956, 970)

NRS 501.1812 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Definitions. As used in NRS 501.1812 to 501.1818, inclusive, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. “License” means a license or tag issued by the Department for:

(a) Recreational hunting or fishing; or

(b) Taking fur-bearing mammals, trapping unprotected mammals or selling raw furs for profit.

2. “Permit” means a permit issued by the Department for recreational hunting or fishing.

3. “Wildlife conviction” means a conviction obtained in any court of competent jurisdiction in this State, including, without limitation, a conviction obtained upon a plea of nolo contendere or upon a forfeiture of bail not vacated in any such court, for a violation of:

(a) A provision of this title or any regulation adopted pursuant to this title other than a provision of NRS 502.370, 502.390, 503.185, 503.310 or 504.295 to 504.398, inclusive; or

(b) A provision of the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, 16 U.S.C. §§ 3371 et seq., if the violation of that provision is based on a violation of a law or regulation of this State.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 896; A 1997, 264, 1025; 1999, 1043; 2003, 1522; 2009, 445)

NRS 501.1814 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Establishment and administration of system; assessment and deletion of points.

1. The Commission shall establish and the Department shall administer and enforce a system of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions. The system must be uniform in its operation.

2. Pursuant to the schedule of demerit points established by regulation of the Commission for each wildlife conviction occurring within this State affecting any holder of a license, permit or privilege issued pursuant to this title, the Department shall assess demerit points for the 60-month period preceding a person’s most recent wildlife conviction. Sixty months after the date of the conviction, the demerit points for that conviction must be deleted from the total demerit points accumulated by that person. The date of the conviction shall be deemed the date on which accumulated demerit points must be assessed. If a conviction of two or more wildlife violations committed at a single event is obtained, demerit points must be assessed for the offense having the greater number of demerit points.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 896; A 1997, 1026; 1999, 1044; 2003, 1523; 2009, 2645)

NRS 501.1816 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Reduction of accumulated points; suspension or revocation of licenses, permits or privileges.

1. If a person accumulates 9 or more demerit points, but less than 12, the Department shall notify the person of that fact by certified mail. If, after the Department mails the notice, the person presents proof to the Department that he or she has, after his or her most recent wildlife conviction, successfully completed a course of instruction in the responsibilities of hunters approved by the Department, the Department shall deduct 4 demerit points from the person’s record. A person may attend a course of instruction in the responsibilities of hunters only once in 60 months for the purpose of reducing his or her demerit points.

2. If a person accumulates 12 or more demerit points before completing a course of instruction pursuant to subsection 1, the Department shall suspend or revoke any license, permit or privilege issued to the person pursuant to this title.

3. Not later than 60 days after the Department determines that a person has accumulated 12 demerit points, the Department shall notify the person by certified mail that the person’s privileges will be suspended or revoked. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 4, the Department shall suspend or revoke those privileges 30 days after it mails the notice.

4. Any person who receives the notice required by subsection 3 may submit to the Department a written request for a hearing before the Commission not later than 30 days after the receipt of the notice. If a written request for a hearing is received by the Department:

(a) The suspension or revocation of the license, permit or privilege is stayed until a determination is made by the Commission after the hearing.

(b) The hearing must be held within 60 days after the request is received.

5. The periods of suspension or revocation imposed pursuant to this section must run concurrently. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, no license, permit or privilege may be suspended or revoked pursuant to this section for more than 3 years. The license, permit or privilege of a person who is convicted pursuant to NRS 501.376 of:

(a) A gross misdemeanor may not be suspended or revoked for more than 5 years;

(b) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (c), a felony may not be suspended or revoked for more than 10 years; or

6. If the Department suspends or revokes a license, permit or privilege pursuant to this section, the period of suspension or revocation begins 30 days after notification pursuant to subsection 3 or a determination is made by the Commission pursuant to subsection 4. After a person’s license, permit or privilege is suspended or revoked pursuant to this section, all demerit points accumulated by that person must be cancelled.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 897; A 1997, 1026; 1999, 1044; 2003, 1523; 2005, 1308; 2009, 2645)

NRS 501.1817 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Judicial review of suspension or revocation of license, permit or privilege. Any person whose license, permit or privilege has been suspended or revoked by the Department pursuant to NRS 501.1816 is entitled to judicial review of the decision in the manner provided by chapter 233B of NRS.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 897; A 1997, 1027; 2003, 1524)

NRS 501.1818 System of assessing demerit points for wildlife convictions: Regulations. The Commission may adopt such regulations as are necessary to carry out the provisions of NRS 501.1812 to 501.1818, inclusive.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 897)

NRS 501.182 Cooperative agreements with adjoining states. The Commission may enter into cooperative agreements with adjoining states for the management of interstate wildlife populations and for the establishment of uniform boating regulations.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1558)

NRS 501.243 Enforcement of chapter 488 of NRS; regulations; cooperative agreements.

1. The Department shall execute, administer and enforce, and perform the functions and duties provided in chapter 488 of NRS.

2. The Commission has the power and authority to:

(a) Promulgate rules and regulations governing the use of waters for recreational purposes, which waters are open to the public and are not under the direct control of any other state or federal agency for recreational use.

(b) Enter into cooperative agreements with federal, state and county agencies having regulatory powers pertaining to the use of public waters for recreational purposes for the purpose of coordinating such rules and regulations.

(Added to NRS by 1965, 1060; A 1969, 1551; 1993, 1655; 2003, 1524)

COUNTY ADVISORY BOARD TO MANAGE WILDLIFE

NRS 501.260 Creation; number of members; officers.

1. There is hereby created a county advisory board to manage wildlife in each of the several counties.

2. In a county whose population:

(a) Is less than 700,000, each board consists of three or five members, at the discretion of the board of county commissioners.

(b) Is 700,000 or more, each board consists of five or seven members, at the discretion of the board of county commissioners.

3. A chair and vice chair must be selected by each board.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1969, 1554; 1977, 1230; 1985, 1350; 1989, 2192; 2005, 457; 2011, 1293)

NRS 501.265 Appointment of members; vacancies.

1. The board of county commissioners shall appoint qualified persons to the board who are residents of the county and are:

(a) Hunters, trappers or anglers; or

(b) Engaged in ranching or farming in the county.

2. In addition to the members appointed pursuant to subsection 1, the board of county commissioners shall appoint one qualified person to the board who represents the interests of the general public of the county. The person appointed pursuant to this subsection must be a resident of the county from which he or she is appointed.

3. Within 60 days after a vacancy occurs, the board of county commissioners shall, if the vacant member was appointed:

(a) Pursuant to subsection 1, appoint a member to the board upon the recommendation of:

(1) Organizations that represent hunters, trappers or anglers in the county; and

(2) Persons who are engaged in ranching or farming in the county.

(b) Pursuant to subsection 2, appoint a member to the board pursuant to the provisions of that subsection.

4. Within 90 days after a vacancy occurs, the board of county commissioners shall report to the Commission the name and address of each member appointed.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1961, 473; 1969, 1554; 1971, 856; 1977, 1231; 1985, 1350; 1989, 2192; 2013, 445)

NRS 501.270 Qualifications of members. The members of the board must be citizens of Nevada and bona fide residents of the county from which appointed.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1969, 1555; 1985, 1351)

NRS 501.275 Appointment and terms of members.

1. The boards of county commissioners shall appoint members to the boards of their respective counties.

2. Each member appointed shall serve a term of 3 years.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1961, 474; 1969, 1555; 1977, 1231; 1985, 1351)

NRS 501.285 Compensation of members. Members of the board shall serve without salary or compensation.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1985, 1351)

NRS 501.290 Meetings. The board shall meet before each meeting of the Commission and at such other times as the chair may call or the Commission may request.

[Part 13:101:1947; A 1949, 292; R 1953, 676; added 1953, 676]—(NRS A 1969, 1556; 1985, 1351; 2015, 958)

NRS 501.293 Removal of member. Members of boards may be removed by the boards of county commissioners of the counties served for cause, including, but not limited to, absences from three consecutive, duly called board meetings, unless excused by their respective board chairs.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1559; A 1977, 1231; 1985, 1351)

NRS 501.297 Duties: Evaluating local opinion and advising Commission. The boards shall solicit and evaluate local opinion and advise the Commission on matters relating to the management of wildlife.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1560; A 1985, 1351; 2015, 958)

NRS 501.303 Duties: Submission of recommendations; attendance of chair or other members at meetings of Commission.

1. The boards shall submit recommendations for the management of wildlife and setting seasons for fishing, hunting and trapping, which must be considered by the Commission in its deliberation on and establishment of regulations.

2. The chair or vice chair, or members of the board appointed by them:

(a) Shall attend the meetings of the Commission; and

(b) Are entitled to receive such travel and per diem expenses as are allowed by law.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1560; A 1979, 893; 1985, 1351; 1989, 2192; 2015, 958)

NRS 501.310 Fund for advisory board. There is hereby created in each of the counties of this State a fund for the advisory board. The fund must be kept in the county treasury, and all money received from the Department must be placed in the fund.

[Part 47:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.47]—(NRS A 1969, 1556; 1985, 1351; 1993, 1655; 2003, 1524)

NRS 501.320 Budgets.

1. Annually, not later than May 1, each board shall prepare a budget for the period ending June 30 of the following year, setting forth in detail its proposed expenditures for carrying out its duties as specified in this title within its county, and submit the budget to the Commission accompanied by a statement of the previous year’s expenditures, certified by the county auditor.

2. The Commission shall examine the budget in conjunction with the Director or a person designated by the Director, and may increase, decrease, alter or amend the budget.

3. Upon approval of the budget, the Department shall transmit a copy of the approved budget to the board, and at the same time withdraw from the Wildlife Account within the State General Fund and transmit to the board the money required under the approved budget for disposition by the board in accordance with the approved budget. All money so received must be placed in the fund for the advisory board.

[12:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.12]—(NRS A 1959, 362; 1969, 1556; 1979, 893; 1985, 1352; 1993, 1655; 2003, 1524; 2011, 3146; 2015, 92)

NRS 501.325 Duties of county auditor and county treasurer. The county auditors and county treasurers in the respective counties are responsible for the safety and preservation of the fund for the advisory board in their county to the same extent as they are in respect to all other money in the county treasury. They shall observe and are bound by the approved budget governing the disposition of the money and shall report their actions currently in connection therewith.

[12a:101:1947; added 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.12a]—(NRS A 1985, 1352)

DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE

NRS 501.331 Creation; administration of laws. The Department of Wildlife is hereby created. The Department shall administer the wildlife laws of this State, chapter 488 of NRS and NRS 701.610 to 701.640, inclusive.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1558; A 1979, 893; 1993, 1655; 2003, 1524; 2007, 619; 2011, 2545, 3147; 2013, 1628)

NRS 501.333 Director: Appointment; qualifications; classification.

1. The Governor shall appoint a Director of the Department, who is its Chief Administrative Officer. The Director serves at the pleasure of the Governor.

2. The Governor shall select as Director a person having an academic degree in the management of wildlife or a closely related field, substantial experience in the management of wildlife and a demonstrated ability to administer a major public agency. When appointing the Director, the Governor may consider any person nominated by the Commission.

3. The Director is in the unclassified service of the State.

[Part 10:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.10]—(NRS A 1957, 160; 1960, 483; 1967, 1501; 1969, 1548; 1971, 1440; 1979, 893; 1985, 432; 1993, 1656; 2003, 1524; 2011, 1640)

NRS 501.337 Director: Duties. The Director shall:

1. Carry out the policies and regulations of the Commission.

2. Direct and supervise all administrative and operational activities of the Department, and all programs administered by the Department as provided by law. Except as otherwise provided in NRS 284.143, the Director shall devote his or her entire time to the duties of the office and shall not follow any other gainful employment or occupation.

3. Within such limitations as may be provided by law, organize the Department and, from time to time with the consent of the Commission, may alter the organization. The Director shall reassign responsibilities and duties as he or she may deem appropriate.

4. Appoint or remove such technical, clerical and operational staff as the execution of his or her duties and the operation of the Department may require, and all those employees are responsible to the Director for the proper carrying out of the duties and responsibilities of their respective positions. The Director shall designate a number of employees as game wardens and provide for their training.

5. Submit technical and other reports to the Commission as may be necessary or as may be requested, which will enable the Commission to establish policy and regulations.

6. Prepare, in consultation with the Commission, the biennial budget of the Department consistent with the provisions of this title, chapter 488 of NRS and NRS 701.610 to 701.640, inclusive, and submit it to the Commission for its review and recommendation before the budget is submitted to the Chief of the Budget Division of the Office of Finance pursuant to NRS 353.210.

7. Administer real property assigned to the Department.

8. Maintain full control, by proper methods and inventories, of all personal property of the State acquired and held for the purposes contemplated by this title and by chapter 488 of NRS.

9. Act as nonvoting Secretary to the Commission.

10. Adopt the regulations required pursuant to NRS 701.610 and 701.630.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1558; A 1977, 1231; 1979, 894; 1983, 850; 1985, 433; 1993, 1656; 1995, 2315, 2585; 1997, 651; 2003, 1525; 2011, 2546)

NRS 501.339 Director: Exercise of powers of Commission in emergency; designation of deputies and game wardens. The Director may:

1. In cases of emergency, with the prior approval of the Governor, exercise the powers of the Commission until such time as the Commission meets or the emergency ends.

2. Designate an employee or employees of the Department to act as the Director’s deputy or deputies. In the Director’s absence or inability to discharge the powers and duties of his or her office, the powers and duties devolve upon the Director’s deputy or deputies.

3. Designate persons outside the Department as game wardens if, in the Director’s opinion, the need for such designations exists.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1559; A 1979, 894; 1983, 851; 1989, 730; 1993, 1656; 2003, 1525)

NRS 501.341 Offices. The headquarters of the Department must be maintained at such a location in the State, and other offices may be established throughout the State in such number and location, as will, in the opinion of the Director and the Commission, provide an efficient departmental operation.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1559; A 1973, 1475; 1979, 895; 1993, 1657; 1995, 2586; 1999, 1662; 2003, 1526)

NRS 501.343 Collection and dissemination of certain information; publications. The Department may:

1. Collect and disseminate, throughout the State, information calculated to educate and benefit the people of the State regarding wildlife and boating, and information pertaining to any program administered by the Department.

2. Publish wildlife journals and other official publications, for which a specific charge may be made, such charge to be determined by the Commission, with the proceeds to be deposited in the Wildlife Account within the State General Fund. No charge may be made for any publication required by a regulation of the Commission.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1559; A 1971, 1381; 1979, 895; 1993, 1657; 2003, 1526; 2011, 3147; 2015, 92)

NRS 501.344 Confidentiality of information obtained by Department. Any information obtained by the Department or any agent of the Department concerning a person who has requested assistance from the Department or has reported any information to the Department concerning any wildlife causing a nuisance or any potentially dangerous wildlife is confidential.

(Added to NRS by 2017, 715)

NRS 501.346 Fees for advertising in printed materials or on website of Department.

1. The Department may charge fees for advertising:

(a) In printed materials prepared by the Department; and

(b) On a website on the Internet or its successor that is maintained by the Department.

2. Any money collected by the Department, pursuant to subsection 1 must be:

(a) Deposited with the State Treasurer for credit to the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund; and

(b) Used to pay the expenses of the Department, including, without limitation, expenses incurred in the development, production and distribution of:

(1) Printed materials prepared by the Department;

(2) Materials used by the Department on the website maintained by the Department; and

(3) Any informational and educational materials provided by the Department for the purposes described in subsection 1 of NRS 501.343.

(Added to NRS by 2003, 666; A 2011, 3147; 2015, 92)

NRS 501.349 Game wardens. Regular employees and others designated by the Director as game wardens shall enforce all provisions of this title and of chapter 488 of NRS.

[Part 10:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.10]—(NRS A 1969, 1549; 1971, 1382; 1977, 1600; 1983, 851; 1993, 1657, 2540; 1995, 703; 2003, 1526)

NRS 501.351 Cooperative and reciprocal agreements.

1. The Director may enter into cooperative or reciprocal agreements with the Federal Government or any agency thereof, any other state or any agency thereof, any other agency of this state, any county or other political subdivision of this state, to the extent permitted by the provisions of chapter 277 of NRS, any public or private corporation, or any person, in accordance with and for the purpose of carrying out the policy of the Commission.

2. Such agreements do not relieve any party thereto of any liability, independent of such agreements, existing under any provision of law.

[1:286:1949; 1943 NCL § 3148.05] + [2:286:1949; 1943 NCL § 3148.06] + [3:286:1949; 1943 NCL § 3148.07]—(NRS A 1961, 194; 1969, 1550; 1979, 895; 1981, 607; 1993, 66, 1657; 1995, 509; 2003, 1526)

NRS 501.352 Reporting of suspected communicable diseases in wildlife. The Director shall require the personnel of the Department to report to him or her as soon as practicable any reasonable suspicion that a communicable disease may be present in wildlife in Nevada. The Director shall, as soon as possible, inform the Director of the State Department of Agriculture of any reasonable suspicion reported to him or her. Any sample collected by the personnel of the Department in evaluating such a suspicion must be forwarded to the Director of the State Department of Agriculture as soon as practicable.

(Added to NRS by 1989, 1086; A 1993, 1657; 1999, 3626; 2003, 1526)

NRS 501.3525 Taking of wildlife by employee of Department. An employee of the Department may take any wildlife from any place, except private property without lawful authority, and in any manner for any purpose determined by the Director to be in the interest of public safety or conserving wildlife in this State if the taking of the wildlife complies with the requirements established by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service or any other agency of the Federal Government.

(Added to NRS by 2005, 1307; A 2019, 757)

NRS 501.3535 Fences constructed by Department: Requirements concerning construction and maintenance. If the Department constructs or causes to be constructed a fence in carrying out its duties, the Department shall, to the greatest extent practicable, ensure that the fence is constructed and maintained in such a manner as to prevent livestock from being trapped in the fence.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 504)

NRS 501.354 Receipt, deposit and expenditure of money. Except as otherwise provided by specific statute, the Department shall receive, deposit and expend all money provided by law for the administration of this title and of chapter 488 of NRS, pursuant to the authority contained in NRS 501.356 and in accordance with the Commission’s policy.

[Part 10:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.10]—(NRS A 1969, 1549; 1979, 895; 1993, 1657; 2001, 973; 2003, 1526)

NRS 501.356 Wildlife Account.

1. Money received by the Department from:

(a) The sale of licenses;

(b) Fees described in NRS 278.337;

(d) Remittances from the State Treasurer pursuant to the provisions of NRS 365.535;

(e) Appropriations made by the Legislature; and

(f) All other sources, including, without limitation, the Federal Government, except money derived from the forfeiture of any property described in NRS 501.3857 or money deposited in the Wildlife Heritage Account pursuant to NRS 501.3575, the Wildlife Trust Fund pursuant to NRS 501.3585, the Energy Planning and Conservation Account created by NRS 701.630 or the Account for the Recovery of Costs created by NRS 701.640,

Ê must be deposited with the State Treasurer for credit to the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund.

2. The interest and income earned on the money in the Wildlife Account, after deducting any applicable charges, must be credited to the Account.

3. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 4 and NRS 503.597, the Department may use money in the Wildlife Account only to carry out the provisions of this title and chapter 488 of NRS and as provided in NRS 365.535, and the money must not be diverted to any other use.

4. Except as otherwise provided in NRS 502.250, 502.410 and 504.155, all fees for the sale or issuance of stamps, tags, permits and licenses that are required to be deposited in the Wildlife Account pursuant to the provisions of this title and any matching money received by the Department from any source must be accounted for separately and must be used:

(a) Only for the protection, propagation and management of wildlife; and

(b) If the fee is for the sale or issuance of a license, permit or tag other than a tag specified in subsection 5 or 6 of NRS 502.250, under the guidance of the Commission pursuant to subsection 2 of NRS 501.181.

[Part 11:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.11]—(NRS A 1963, 1194; 1965, 1069; 1969, 1552; 1971, 1382, 1383; 1973, 629; 1977, 44; 1979, 895; 1983, 448, 1588; 1991, 2284; 1993, 1658; 1995, 863, 2586; 2001, 973; 2003, 1526, 2537; 2009, 305, 490; 2011, 2400, 2546, 3148; 2013, 2765; 2015, 92; 2021, 2587)

NRS 501.3575 Wildlife Heritage Account.

1. The Wildlife Heritage Account is hereby created in the State General Fund. The money in the Account must be used by the Department as provided in this section for:

(a) The protection, propagation, restoration, transplantation, introduction and management of any game fish, game mammal, game bird or fur-bearing mammal in this State; and

(b) The management and control of predatory wildlife in this State.

2. Except as otherwise provided in NRS 502.250, money received by the Department from:

(a) A bid, auction, Silver State Tag Drawing or Partnership in Wildlife Drawing conducted pursuant to NRS 502.250; and

(b) A gift of money made by any person to the Wildlife Heritage Account,

Ê must be deposited with the State Treasurer for credit to the Account.

3. The interest and income earned on the money in the Wildlife Heritage Account, after deducting any applicable charges, must be credited to the Account.

4. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, the Department may annually expend from the Wildlife Heritage Account an amount of money not greater than 75 percent of the money deposited in the Account pursuant to subsection 2 during the previous year and the total amount of interest earned on the money in the Account during the previous year. In addition, the Department may, at any time, expend from the Account any portion of the amount of money in the Account which exceeds $5,000,000. The Commission shall review and approve expenditures from the Account. No money may be expended from the Account without the prior approval of the Commission.

5. The Commission shall administer the provisions of this section and may adopt any regulations necessary for that purpose.

(Added to NRS by 1995, 863; A 1997, 785; 2003, 1527; 2005, 584; 2009, 2056; 2015, 93; 2019, 757)

NRS 501.3585 Wildlife Trust Fund.

1. The Department shall establish the Wildlife Trust Fund. The Department may accept any gift, donation, bequest or devise from any private source for deposit in the Wildlife Trust Fund. All money must be accounted for in the Wildlife Trust Fund.

2. As soon as practicable after receiving any gift, donation, bequest or devise for an unanticipated emergency event from any private source pursuant to subsection 1 that is exempt from the provisions of NRS 353.335 pursuant to paragraph (e) of subsection 6 of NRS 353.335, the Director or the Director’s designee shall submit to the Commission and the Interim Finance Committee a report which states:

(a) The unanticipated emergency event for which the gift, donation, bequest or devise was received;

(b) The amount of the gift, donation, bequest or devise;

(d) The private source from which the gift, donation, bequest or devise was received.

3. All of the money in the Wildlife Trust Fund must be deposited in a financial institution to draw interest or to be expended, invested and reinvested pursuant to the specific instructions of the donor, or if no such specific instructions exist, in the sound discretion of the Director. The provisions of NRS 356.011 apply to any accounts in financial institutions maintained pursuant to this section.

4. The money in the Wildlife Trust Fund must be budgeted and expended, within any limitations which may have been specified by particular donors, at the discretion of the Director. The Director may authorize independent contractors that may be funded in whole or in part from the money in the Wildlife Trust Fund.

5. The Director or the Director’s designee shall annually post on the Internet website maintained by the Department a statement setting forth the investment and expenditure of the money in the Wildlife Trust Fund.

6. A separate statement concerning the anticipated amount and proposed expenditures of the money in the Wildlife Trust Fund must be submitted to the Director of the Office of Finance for his or her information at the same time and for the same fiscal years as the requested budget of the Department submitted to the Chief of the Budget Division of the Office of Finance pursuant to NRS 353.210. The statement must be attached to the requested budget for the Department when the requested budget is submitted to the Fiscal Analysis Division of the Legislative Counsel Bureau pursuant to NRS 353.211.

7. The provisions of chapter 333 of NRS do not apply to the expenditure of money in the Wildlife Trust Fund.

8. As used in this section, “unanticipated emergency event” means:

(a) The unanticipated spread of a communicable disease among wildlife in this State;

(b) Drought conditions in this State that the Department determines to be extreme;

(d) Any other similar unanticipated event that puts wildlife, wildlife habitat or human life at risk.

(Added to NRS by 2011, 3146; A 2017, 715; 2021, 1756)

NRS 501.359 Wildlife Imprest Account.

1. The Wildlife Imprest Account in the amount of $15,000 is hereby created for the use of the Department, subject to the following conditions:

(a) The money must be deposited in a bank or credit union qualified to receive deposits of public money, except that $500 must be kept in the custody of an employee designated by the Director for immediate use for purposes set forth in this section.

(b) The Account must be replenished periodically from the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund upon approval of expenditures as required by law and submission of vouchers or other documents to indicate payment as may be prescribed.

2. The Wildlife Imprest Account may be used to pay for postage, C.O.D. packages, travel or other minor expenses which are proper as claims for payment from the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund.

3. The Wildlife Imprest Account may be used to provide money to employees of the Department for travel expenses and subsistence allowances arising out of their official duties or employment. All advances constitute a lien in favor of the Department upon the accrued wages of the requesting employee in an amount equal to the money advanced, but the Director may advance more than the amount of the accrued wages of the employee. Upon the return of the employee, the employee is entitled to receive money for any authorized expenses and subsistence in excess of the amount advanced.

(Added to NRS by 1981, 606; A 1993, 1658; 1999, 1507; 2003, 1527; 2011, 3148; 2015, 94)

NRS 501.361 Petty Cash Account. A Petty Cash Account in the amount of $1,000 for the payment of minor expenses of the Department is hereby created. The Account must be kept in the custody of an employee designated by the Director and must be replenished periodically from the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund upon approval of expenditures as required by law and submission of vouchers or other documents to indicate payment as may be prescribed.

(Added to NRS by 1965, 217; A 1969, 1553; 1973, 287; 1979, 897; 1993, 1658; 2001, 973; 2003, 1528; 2011, 3149; 2015, 94)

NRS 501.363 Change Account. A Change Account in the amount of $3,000 is hereby created. The Account must be kept in the custody of one or more employees designated by the Director and used for the making of change incidental to the business of the Department.

(Added to NRS by 1965, 217; A 1969, 1554; 1979, 897; 1993, 58, 1659; 1995, 579; 2001, 974; 2003, 1528)

ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES

NRS 501.375 Powers and duties of game wardens, sheriffs and other peace officers.

1. Every game warden, sheriff and other peace officer of this State and its political subdivisions shall enforce the provisions of this title and seize any wildlife taken or held in possession in violation of those provisions.

2. Such an officer may:

(a) With or without a warrant, conduct a reasonable search of any camp, structure, aircraft, vessel, vehicle, box, game bag or other package where the officer has reason to believe any wildlife taken or held in violation of any of the provisions of this title is to be found, and, for the purpose of such a search, may detain any aircraft, vessel or vehicle for a reasonable time.

(b) Seize any such wildlife and any gun, ammunition, trap, snare, tackle, or other device or equipment whose presence indicates that a violation of any provision of this title has occurred. Except for property described in NRS 501.3857, property seized pursuant to this subsection may be held only for evidence and may be recovered by the owner within 1 year after it is no longer needed for that purpose. The Department shall, within 30 days after the property is no longer needed, send a written notice to the owner of the property that informs the owner of the owner’s right to recover the property.

3. A dwelling house may be searched only pursuant to a warrant or as otherwise provided by law.

[39:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.39]—(NRS A 1967, 177; 1969, 1348; 1979, 897; 1991, 260, 2285; 1993, 552; 2005, 1309)

NRS 501.376 Unlawful killing or possession of bighorn sheep, mountain goat, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn antelope, mountain lion or black bear; exceptions; criminal penalties.

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person shall not intentionally kill or aid and abet another person to kill a bighorn sheep, mountain goat, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn antelope, mountain lion or black bear:

(a) Outside of the prescribed season set by the Commission for the lawful hunting of that animal;

(b) Through the use of a manned or unmanned aircraft or helicopter in violation of NRS 503.010;

(d) Knowingly during a time other than:

(1) The time of day set by the Commission for hunting that animal pursuant to NRS 503.140; or

(2) If the Commission has not set such a time, between sunrise and sunset as determined pursuant to that section; or

(e) Without a valid tag issued by the Department for hunting that animal. A tag issued for hunting any animal specified in this subsection is not valid if knowingly used by a person:

(1) Except as otherwise provided by the regulations adopted by the Commission pursuant to subsection 9 of NRS 501.181, other than the person specified on the tag;

(2) Outside of the management area or other area specified on the tag; or

(3) If the tag was obtained by a false or fraudulent representation.

2. The provisions of subsection 1 do not prohibit the killing of an animal specified in subsection 1 if:

(a) The killing of the animal is necessary to protect the life of any person, pet or livestock in imminent danger of being attacked by the animal; or

(b) The animal killed was not the intended target of the person who killed the animal and the killing of the animal which was the intended target would not violate the provisions of subsection 1.

3. A person who violates the provisions of subsection 1 shall be punished for a category E felony as provided in NRS 193.130 or, if the court reduces the penalty pursuant to this subsection, for a gross misdemeanor. In determining whether to reduce the penalty, the court shall consider:

(a) The nature of the offense;

(b) The circumstances surrounding the offense;

(d) The attitude of the defendant towards the offense; and

(e) The general objectives of sentencing.

4. A person shall not willfully possess any animal specified in subsection 1 if the person knows the animal was killed in violation of subsection 1 or the circumstances should have caused a reasonable person to know that the animal was killed in violation of subsection 1.

5. A person who violates the provisions of subsection 4 is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

6. As used in this section:

(a) “Livestock” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 561.025.

(b) “Pet” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 202.487.

(Added to NRS by 1985, 1348; A 1991, 1570, 2285; 1993, 569; 2003, 2538; 2007, 1798; 2015, 972; 2019, 449, 758)

NRS 501.3765 Unlawful activities concerning traps, snares or similar devices owned by another person; criminal penalties.

1. Any person who intentionally steals, takes and carries away one or more traps, snares or similar devices owned by another person with an aggregate value of less than $1,200 is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

2. Any person who buys, receives, possesses or withholds one or more traps, snares or similar devices owned by another person with an aggregate value of less than $1,200:

(a) Knowing that the traps, snares or similar devices are stolen property; or

(b) Under such circumstances as should have caused a reasonable person to know that the traps, snares or similar devices are stolen property,

Ê is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 1001; A 2019, 4484)

NRS 501.377 Unlawful to remove, tamper with or alter tag placed on wildlife or equipment seized as evidence. It is unlawful to remove, tamper with or alter any evidence identification tag placed on wildlife or on any equipment seized as evidence for the violation of any provision of this title.

(Added to NRS by 1969, 1350)

NRS 501.379 Unlawful sales of wildlife or importation of game mammals, game birds or game amphibians; exception.

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section:

(a) It is unlawful for any person to sell or expose for sale, to barter, trade or purchase or to attempt to sell, barter, trade or purchase any species of wildlife, or parts thereof, except as otherwise provided in this title or in a regulation of the Commission.

(b) The importation and sale of products made from the meat of game mammals, game birds or game amphibians raised in captivity is not prohibited if the importation is from a licensed commercial breeder or commercial processor.

2. The provisions of this section do not apply to alternative livestock and products made therefrom.

[70:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.70]—(NRS A 1969, 1361; 1971, 1383; 1979, 897; 1983, 851; 1991, 261; 1993, 430)

NRS 501.381 Unlawful sale of game fish.

1. It is unlawful for any person to sell, or expose for sale, to barter, trade or purchase, or attempt to sell, barter, trade or purchase any species of game fish or parts thereof, except as provided in this title or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto.

2. This section does not prohibit the importation and sale of dead game fish or parts thereof from licensed commercial processors or licensed fish hatcheries outside the State or the importation and sale of salt water fish, mollusks or crustaceans.

[33:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.33]—(NRS A 1969, 1362; 1993, 67)

NRS 501.382 Unlawful feeding of big game mammal; penalties; exceptions.

1. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 3, a person shall not intentionally feed any big game mammal without written authorization from the Department.

2. A person who violates subsection 1:

(a) For a first offense, must not be cited or charged criminally but must be informed, in writing, of the behavior that constitutes the violation and the penalties prescribed by this section for any subsequent violation of this section.

(b) For a second offense, shall be punished by a fine of not more than $250.

3. The provisions of this section do not apply to any employee or agent of the Department or the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service of the United States Department of Agriculture who, while carrying out his or her duties, intentionally feeds a big game mammal for any purpose.

4. As used in this section:

(a) “Big game mammal” means:

(1) Any pronghorn antelope, black bear, mule deer, mountain goat, mountain lion or Rocky Mountain elk; or

(2) Any of the following subspecies of bighorn sheep:

(I) Nelson bighorn sheep;

(II) California bighorn sheep; or

(III) Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep.

(b) “Intentionally feed” means to supply, provide or otherwise make available any salt, grain, meat or other form of nourishment with the intent to attract or feed a big game mammal. The term does not include any incidental or unintentional feeding of a big game mammal, including, without limitation, any such feeding associated with:

(1) Any accepted agricultural or livestock practice;

(2) Any planting or maintenance of any shrub, tree or other landscaping for any residence, property or area; or

(3) Any sporting event or outdoor activity at which food is served or consumed.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 1019)

NRS 501.383 Unlawful vandalism of sign or notice erected by Department. It is unlawful for any person maliciously to tear down, mutilate or destroy any sign, signboard or other notice which has been erected by the Department or through an agency of the Department.

[Part 1911 C&P § 503; RL § 6768; NCL § 10450]—(NRS A 1969, 1361; 1993, 1659; 2003, 1528)

NRS 501.384 Unlawful possession of certain wildlife from another state or country.

1. It is unlawful for any person to possess in Nevada any wildlife that was acquired, hunted, taken or transported from another state or country in violation of any law or regulation of that state or country.

2. As used in this section, “wildlife” has the meaning ascribed to the term in the applicable law or regulation of the state or country of its origin.

(Added to NRS by 2013, 162)

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, it is unlawful for a person or any agent or employee of a person to knowingly:

(a) Bring into this State the carcass or any part of the carcass of any of the following animals which were obtained in another state, territory or country:

(1) An elk (Cervus elaphus);

(2) A mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus);

(3) A white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus);

(4) A moose (Alces alces);

(5) Any alternative livestock; or

(6) Any other animal which the State Quarantine Officer has, by regulation, declared to be susceptible to chronic wasting disease and prohibited from importation into this State; or

(b) Possess any carcass or part of the carcass of any elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal brought into this State in violation of paragraph (a).

2. A person or any agent or employee of a person may bring into this State the following parts of the carcass of any elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal specified in subsection 1:

(a) The meat of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal with no part of the spinal column, brain tissue or head attached, except that one or more bones of the legs or shoulders may be attached.

(b) The hide or cape of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal with no part of the spinal column, brain tissue or head attached.

(c) The clean skull plate of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal with antlers attached and no part of the brain tissue attached.

(d) The antlers of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal with no meat or tissue other than antler velvet attached.

(e) The taxidermy mount of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal with no meat or tissue other than antler velvet attached.

(f) The upper canine teeth of the elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal, including, without limitation, the bugler, whistler and ivory teeth.

3. Any carcass or part of the carcass of an elk, deer, moose, alternative livestock or other animal knowingly brought into this State or knowingly possessed in this State in violation of this section may be seized, destroyed or sent out of this State by a game warden or any other law enforcement officer within 48 hours. The expense of seizing, destroying or removing the carcass or part of the carcass must be paid by the person or his or her agent or employee who knowingly brought the carcass or part of the carcass into this State or knowingly possessed the carcass or part of the carcass in this State.

(Added to NRS by 2019, 403)

NRS 501.385 Unlawful acts; criminal penalties. Except as otherwise provided by specific statute:

1. Any person who:

(a) Performs an act or attempts to perform an act made unlawful or prohibited by a provision of this title;

(b) Willfully fails to perform an act required of the person by a provision of this title;

(1) In the performance of any duty while enforcing or attempting to enforce any provision of this title or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto; or

(2) While lawfully obtaining or attempting to obtain biological samples of wildlife, hunting, fishing or trapping data, or any other biological data or information relating to wildlife;

(d) Violates any order issued or regulation adopted by the Commission under the provisions of this title; or

(e) Having been granted a privilege or been licensed or permitted to do any act under the provisions of this title, exercises the grant, license or permit in a manner other than as specified,

Ê is guilty of a misdemeanor. An officer, employee or agent of the Department may not obtain or attempt to obtain biological samples of wildlife, hunting, fishing or trapping data, or any other biological data or information relating to wildlife on private property without the consent of the owner of the property.

2. Every person who is guilty of a misdemeanor under this title shall be punished by a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $500, or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than 6 months, or by both fine and imprisonment.

[Part 90:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.90]—(NRS A 1969, 1348; 1979, 897; 1985, 1352; 1993, 1659; 2003, 1528; 2005, 1309)

NRS 501.3855 Civil penalties.

1. In addition to the penalties provided for the violation of any of the provisions of this title, every person who:

(a) Unlawfully kills or possesses a trophy big game mammal is liable for a civil penalty of not less than $5,000 nor more than $30,000; or

(b) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (a) or NRS 503.610, unlawfully kills or possesses a big game mammal, moose, bobcat, swan or eagle is liable for a civil penalty of not less than $250 but less than $5,000.

2. For the unlawful killing or possession of fish or wildlife not included in subsection 1, a person is liable for a civil penalty of not less than $25 nor more than $1,000.

3. For hunting, fishing or trapping without a valid license, tag or permit, a person is liable for a civil penalty of not less than $50 nor more than the amount of the fee for the license, tag or permit required for the activity in which the person engaged.

4. Every court, before whom a defendant is convicted of unlawfully killing or possessing any wildlife, shall order the defendant to pay the civil penalty in the amount stated in this section for each mammal, bird or fish unlawfully killed or possessed. The court shall fix the manner and time of payment.

5. The Department may attempt to collect all penalties and installments that are in default in any manner provided by law for the enforcement of a judgment.

6. If a person who is ordered to pay a civil penalty pursuant to this section fails to do so within 90 days after the date set forth in the order, the Department may suspend, revoke, or refuse to issue or renew any license, tag, permit, certificate or other document or privilege otherwise available to the person pursuant to this title or chapter 488 of NRS.

7. Each court that receives money pursuant to the provisions of this section shall forthwith remit the money to the Department which shall deposit the money with the State Treasurer for credit to the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund.

8. As used in this section, “trophy big game mammal” means a mule deer with an outside antler measurement of at least 24 inches, a bighorn sheep of any species with at least one horn exceeding a half curl, a Rocky Mountain elk with at least six antler points on one antler, a pronghorn antelope with at least one horn which is more than 14 inches in length, a mountain goat or a black bear. As used in this subsection:

(a) “Antler” means any bony growth originating from the pedicle portion of the skull of a big game mammal that is annually cast and regenerated as part of the annual life cycle of the big game mammal.

(b) “Antler point” means a projection which is at least 1 inch in length with the length exceeding the width of its base, excluding the first point on the main beam commonly known as the eye guard on mule deer.

(c) “Horn exceeding a half curl” means a horn tip that has grown at least through 180 degrees of a circle determined by establishing a parallel reference line from the base of the horn and measuring the horn tip to determine whether the horn tip has grown at least to the projection of the reference line.

(d) “Outside antler measurement” means the perpendicular measurement at right angles to the center line of the skull of a deer at the widest point between the main antler beams or the antler points off the main antler beams.

(Added to NRS by 1981, 541; A 1989, 1777; 1991, 261; 1993, 1659; 2003, 1529, 2539; 2011, 1346, 3149; 2015, 94; 2021, 1084)

NRS 501.3857 Forfeitures. Any gun, ammunition, trap, snare, vessel, vehicle, aircraft or other device or equipment used, or intended for use:

1. To facilitate the unlawful and intentional killing or possession of any big game mammal;

2. To hunt or kill a big game mammal by using information obtained as a result of the commission of an act prohibited by NRS 503.010 or a regulation of the Commission which prohibits the location of big game mammals for the purpose of hunting or killing by the use of:

(a) A manned or unmanned aircraft, including, without limitation, any unmanned aerial vehicle, as defined in NRS 493.020, or any other device that is used for navigation of, or flight in, the air;

(b) A hot air balloon or any other device that is lighter than air; or

(c) A satellite or any other device that orbits the earth and is equipped to produce images, or other similar devices; or

3. Knowingly to transport, sell, receive, acquire or purchase any big game mammal which is unlawfully killed or possessed,

Ê is subject to forfeiture pursuant to NRS 179.1156 to 179.1205, inclusive.

(Added to NRS by 1991, 2283; A 1993, 552; 2005, 1310; 2019, 450, 759)

NRS 501.386 Citation of violators.

1. Except as otherwise provided in subsection 2 and NRS 501.382, whenever any person is halted by a game warden for any violation of this title, the person:

(a) Must, except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b), be given a citation, if the violation is punishable as a misdemeanor; or

(b) May, in the discretion of the game warden, either be given a citation or be taken without unnecessary delay before the proper magistrate, if the violation is punishable as:

(1) A felony or gross misdemeanor; or

(2) A misdemeanor that constitutes a repeat offense or a crime of violence.

2. A person described in subsection 1 must be taken before the magistrate in either of the following cases:

(a) When the person does not furnish satisfactory evidence of identity; or

(b) When the game warden has reasonable and probable grounds to believe the person will disregard a written promise to appear in court.

3. As used in this section:

(a) “Crime of violence” has the meaning ascribed to it in NRS 200.408.

(b) “Repeat offense” means an offense for which the person has previously been arrested, convicted or issued a citation.

(Added to NRS by 1971, 831; A 2013, 1020; 2021, 3470)

NRS 501.3865 Failure to appear by holder of license, tag or permit.

1. If a person who holds:

(a) A license, tag or permit issued by the Department to engage in any activity authorized or regulated by this title or by a regulation adopted pursuant thereto; or

(b) A certificate of number issued by the Department,

Ê violates a written promise to appear pursuant to a citation that was prepared manually or electronically for a violation of a provision of this title, chapter 488 of NRS or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto, the clerk of the court shall immediately notify the Department on a form approved by the Department.

2. Upon receipt of notice from a court in this State of a failure to appear, the Department shall notify the person by certified mail that the person’s license, tag, permit or certificate of number is subject to suspension and allow the person 30 days after the date of mailing the notice to:

(a) Appear in court and obtain a dismissal of the citation or complaint as provided by law;

(b) Appear in court and, if permitted by the court, make an arrangement acceptable to the court to satisfy a judgment of conviction; or

3. If notified by a court within 30 days after the notice of a failure to appear that a person has been allowed to make an arrangement for the satisfaction of a judgment of conviction, the Department shall remove the suspension from the record of the person. If the person subsequently defaults on his or her arrangement with the court, the court shall notify the Department which shall immediately suspend the license, tag, permit or certificate of number until the court notifies the Department that the suspension may be removed.

4. The Department shall suspend the license, tag, permit or certificate of number of a person 31 days after the Department mails the person the notice provided for in subsection 2, unless within that period the Department receives a written request for a hearing from the person or notice from the court on a form approved by the Department that the person has appeared or the citation or complaint has been dismissed. A license, tag, permit or certificate of number so suspended remains suspended until further notice is received from the court that the person has appeared or that the case has been otherwise disposed of as provided by law.

(Added to NRS by 2005, 1307)

NRS 501.3867 Failure to appear by person who does not hold license, tag or permit.

1. If a person who does not hold:

(a) A license, tag or permit issued by the Department to engage in any activity authorized or regulated by this title or by a regulation adopted pursuant thereto; or

(b) A certificate of number issued by the Department,

2. Such a person may not apply to the Department for a license, tag, permit or certificate of number until the Department receives notice from the court that the person has appeared or that the case has been otherwise disposed of as provided by law.

(Added to NRS by 2005, 1308)

NRS 501.387 Penalties concerning licenses; confiscation and disposal of wildlife.

1. Except as otherwise provided by specific statute, upon a conviction of a violation of any provision of this title, or any regulation adopted pursuant to this title, in addition to the penalty provided for the violation, the court may require the immediate surrender of all licenses issued under the provisions of this title and held by the convicted person. Upon receipt of a surrendered license, the court shall forward it to the Commission.

2. In addition to the penalty provided for the violation of any of the provisions of this title, the court may cause to be confiscated all wildlife taken or possessed by the convicted person. All confiscated wildlife must be disposed of as directed by the court.

3. A convicted person shall not, during the time the person’s license is revoked or suspended:

(a) Engage in any activity for which the license was issued; or

(b) Purchase or otherwise obtain a license which has been suspended or revoked.

4. Any person who is convicted of violating the provisions of subsection 3 shall be punished by a fine of not more than $1,000 or by imprisonment in a county jail for a period not to exceed 6 months, or by both a fine and imprisonment. In addition, the revocation or suspension of the license of the convicted person may be extended by an amount of time equal to the original period of revocation or suspension.

[Part 90:101:1947; 1943 NCL § 3035.90]—(NRS A 1957, 160; 1967, 597; 1969, 1349; 1975, 895; 1981, 542; 1989, 730; 1993, 924; 1995, 898)

NRS 501.388 Revocation of license and of privilege to apply for big game tag on conviction of certain violations.

1. The Commission may, in addition to any suspension, revocation or other penalty imposed pursuant to any other provision of this title:

(a) Revoke any license of any person who is convicted of a violation of NRS 503.050, and may refuse to issue any new license to the convicted person for any period not to exceed 5 years after the date of the conviction; and

(b) Revoke any license of any person who is convicted of unlawfully killing or possessing a bighorn sheep, mountain goat, elk, deer, moose, pronghorn antelope, mountain lion or black bear in violation of NRS 501.376, and may:

(1) Refuse to issue any new license to the convicted person for any period not to exceed 3 years; and

(2) Revoke that person’s privilege to apply for any big game tag for a period not to exceed 10 years.

2. The court in which the conviction is had shall require the immediate surrender of all such licenses and shall forward them to the Commission.

(Added to NRS by 1975, 894; A 1981, 542; 1985, 1353; 1991, 261; 1997, 1027; 2003, 2539; 2019, 759)

NRS 501.389 Sale, donation or retention of equipment seized as evidence.

1. Except for property described in NRS 501.3857, equipment:

(a) Seized as evidence in accordance with NRS 501.375; and

(b) Not recovered by the owner within 1 year after it is no longer needed for evidentiary purposes,

Ê becomes the property of the Department.

2. The Department may:

(a) Sell the equipment in accordance with the regulations adopted pursuant to subsection 5 of NRS 333.220;

(b) Donate equipment that is not dangerous to nonprofit organizations which benefit children;

(c) Donate equipment that is not dangerous to children from low-income families who attend fishing clinics sponsored by the Department; or

(d) Retain the equipment for authorized use by the Department.

Ê All money received from the sale of equipment must be deposited with the State Treasurer for credit to the Wildlife Account in the State General Fund.

3. Any person of lawful age and lawfully entitled to reside in the United States may purchase the equipment, whether a prior owner or not.

[90 1/2:101:1947; added 1949, 292; 1943 NCL § 3035.89a]—(NRS A 1969, 1349; 1979, 898; 1989, 731; 1991, 2285; 1993, 1660; 2003, 1529; 2005, 1310; 2011, 3149; 2015, 95)

NRS 501.395 Rewards.

1. The Department may offer a reward for one or more classes of wildlife, not to exceed $1,000, for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person who unlawfully kills or possesses wildlife of the class specified. The reward must be paid for each person so arrested and convicted upon the conviction. The reward must be distributed equally among the persons who supplied the information which led to the arrest and conviction.

2. The Commission may adopt such regulations as are necessary to carry out the provisions of this section.

(Added to NRS by 1981, 542; A 1985, 1353; 1993, 1660; 2003, 1529)