Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Traditional Firearms Hunter Safety Course

Connecticut’s traditional format for the Firearms Hunter Safety Course is a minimum of 16 hours presented in an in-person classroom setting over several days and/or nights. It includes both classroom and field exercises. Registration is mandatory and limited to a pre-determined number of students for each location. Register Here

  • Students must attend ALL DATES of the course.
  • Firearms and ammunition will be provided at the field day. DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION OF ANY KIND TO THE CLASS.
  • Students must demonstrate safe firearm handling skills and pass a 50 question multiple choice exam.
  • Wear weather and season appropriate clothing. Footwear must be closed toe and suitable for wet and/or muddy conditions.
  • Minimum age to attend is 10 years old. All students under 18 years of age must be registered and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or guardian must sign the student registration card at the field day.
  • Many facilities are not located near food options. It is recommended students bring a bagged lunch.

The Connecticut CE/FS Program receives 75% of its funds from the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program. The remaining 25% state match is derived by using the value of the services provided by the volunteer instructors. The Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Program is funded by the excise tax paid by sportsmen on rifles, shotgun, ammunition, handguns, and archery equipment.

Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration logo and tagline. 

Content last updated on March 3, 2022