Ask Mr. Answer Person: "Is it true that bow hunting is allowed in residential neighborhoods in Decorah?"

Deer seen in a Decorah neighborhood

decorahnews.com reader Lowell e-mails Mr. Answer Person: "Is it true that bow hunting is allowed in residential neighborhoods in Decorah?  If so, what steps need to be taken to do this?"
 
The City of Decorah's municipal code (Chapter 9.58) specifically prohibits the discharge of firearms in the City limits.  It then goes on to say that shooting arrows across streets and public places is prohibited.

It doesn't say anything more about shooting arrows, so, by implication, you might come to the conclusion that it's OK to shoot arrows on private property.

But Police Chief Bill Nixon wasn't enthusiastic about the idea of someone shooting arrows at deer within the city limits.  "The possibility of an arrow penetrating the deer and traveling toward an unintended target has to be considered, as would missing the target and the potential of an arrow leaving the private property," says Nixon  He continues, "I'm also concerned about the injured deer running.  In all likelihood the deer will not fall where it is shot and will leave the private property.  This could create a very real traffic hazard or nuisance that we as the Police would then have to resolve.  This could make it necessary for us to euthanize the deer (shoot it) in the city, which can be problematic."

City Administrator Jerry Freund says if you're still serious about wanting to shoot arrows at deer within the city limits, he would recommend that you contact the DNR about its regulations and obtaining the necessary permit, then contact Decorah Police and provide them with information about the intended activity.