Legislation & Provincial Regulations

Understanding Bowhunting Legislation in South Africa

Bowhunting in South Africa is governed by strict laws and ethical standards designed to protect wildlife and promote responsible hunting.
The South African Bowhunters Association (SABA) works closely with national and provincial conservation authorities to ensure that every bowhunter understands and complies with these regulations.

This page provides access to:

  • SABA’s own legislative framework and ethical guidelines, and
  • The latest provincial laws and documentation that regulate bowhunting activities across South Africa.

All bowhunters are encouraged to stay informed and up to date with the legislation that applies to their province before engaging in any hunting activity.

SABA Legislative Framework

Our Commitment to Ethical and Responsible Bowhunting

SABA operates under a framework that promotes ethical bowhunting, conservation, and compliance with South African wildlife legislation.
Our own legislative and ethical code sets the standard for bowhunters who wish to uphold respect for nature, fair chase principles, and humane hunting practices.

Read The SABA Constitution Here

SABA Constitution

SABA 3D Shoot Format And Scoring

SABA 3D Shoot Format And Scoring

Guiding Responsible Bowhunting in South Africa

Understanding South Africa’s Hunting Norms and Standards

As bowhunters, we share a deep respect for nature and wildlife. These national norms and standards help guide our actions in the field, ensuring that every hunt is carried out with fairness, integrity, and care for the environment. By understanding and following these guidelines, we uphold the values that define the South African Bowhunters Association and protect the future of our sport for generations to come.

Read The South African - Norms and Standards for Hunting Methods Here

South African – Norms and Standards for Hunting Methods

Proclamations

Provincial Bowhunting Regulations

Each province in South Africa has its own set of hunting regulations and proclamations that outline the legal requirements for bowhunting in that region. These documents cover important details such as hunting seasons, permit conditions, and species that may be hunted. We encourage all members to familiarise themselves with their province’s specific rules before planning a hunt, to ensure full compliance and responsible participation in the sport.

Proclamations - Eastern Cape

Proclamations – Eastern Cape

Proclamations - Free State

Proclamations – Free State

Proclamations - Limpopo

Proclamations – Limpopo

Proclamations - Mpumalanga

Proclamations – Mpumalanga

Blue Duiker - Advisory

Blue Duiker Advisory

Proclamations - Northern Cape

Proclamations – Northern Cape

Proclamations - North West

Proclamations – North West

Hunting Ordinances

Provincial Hunting Ordinances

Each province in South Africa has its own set of hunting regulations and proclamations that outline the legal requirements for bowhunting in that region. These documents cover important details such as hunting seasons, permit conditions, and species that may be hunted. We encourage all members to familiarise themselves with their province’s specific rules before planning a hunt, to ensure full compliance and responsible participation in the sport.

Ordinance - Eastern Cape

Ordinance – Eastern Cape

Ordinance - Free State

Ordinance – Free State

Ordinance – Free State-1

Ordinance - Gauteng

Ordinance – Gauteng

Ordinance - Limpopo

Ordinance – Limpopo

Ordinance - North West

Ordinance – North West

Ordinance - Western Cape

Ordinance – Western Cape

Other Regulations

Professional Hunters And Hunting-Outfitters

REGULATIONS RELATING TO PROFESSIONAL HUNTERS AND HUNTING-OUTFITTERS

Regulations Relating To Professional Hunters And Hunting-Outfitters-KZN

Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Regulations - 1999

Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Regulations -1999

Disclaimer

The documents and legislative downloads provided on this page are shared in good faith to assist bowhunters in understanding the legal requirements that apply to bowhunting across South Africa.
While SABA strives to ensure that all files are accurate and current, it remains the responsibility of each bowhunter to verify the latest regulations, laws, and permit requirements with the relevant provincial conservation authority before hunting.

SABA cannot be held liable for any loss, penalty, or legal issue arising from reliance on outdated or incorrect information contained in these documents.