Risk
Landowners who lease their property for pay may subject themselves to liability risk. For the landowner to be negligent, he/she must be proven guilty to be held liable for personal injury. Your attorney should be consulted about liability issues and tailor the sample lease and permit documents in this publication to fit the specific needs of each landowner. These documents are offered only as samples and should not be used without legal counsel. To reduce the risk of liability, the following suggested steps should be followed.
Example:
We, the undersigned, do hereby assume all risks associated with hunting and do herby release____________________ and all properties of any and all negligence.
Signed_______________________________
Date_________________________________
Maintain Safety
Note all dangerous situations on the property and give each guest a map of the property. Be sure to point out all boundaries and dangerous situations.
Supply Regulations
Supply each guest with a set of both federal and state hunting and/or fishing regulations. Have the guest sign an exculpatory clause. This is a statement that the guest holds the landowner innocent of anything that should happen on the premises.
Require Liability Insurance
Liability insurance can be obtained at a reasonable cost. This coverage will protect the landowner. Also, require the lessee to pay for this insurance and this should be stated in the lease.
