You might hear increased gunshot noises in the Central Valley: here’s why

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Some officials across the Central Valley have warned residents that they might hear an increase in gunshots, especially in the rural areas of the counties.

This is because of the dove season. In California, Dove hunting season begins on Sept. 1 and goes through Sept. 15, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The Sanger Police Department said on Monday gunshots might begin in the early morning and can be heard just outside of the city limits. They assure residents they are aware of it and are keeping an eye on things but advise the community to contact them if they notice something unusual or have any concerns.

Gunshot noise can be heard as early as 30 minutes before sunrise, according to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office, and will end at sunset. They advise all hunters, including junior hunters, to have their hunting licenses with them at all times.

The Sheriff’s Office says all hunters must have written permission from the landowner before hunting on private land. Bad limits apply to each hunter and they cannot take more than one legal limit. They also say it is illegal to shoot within 150 yards of any occupied structure, and hunters cannot shoot from or across any public roadway.

For more information on dove hunting season and a full list of hunting laws, visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife webpage.

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