Bill
AB 764
AB 764 allows Californians to take mute swans without a hunting license until 2031, promoting population management and encouraging reporting to wildlife authorities.
Bill Number: AB 764
Introduced: February 18, 2025
Status: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 441, Statutes of 2025
Author: Jeff Gonzalez
Subject: Birds and Mammals, Mute Swans, Nongame Birds
AB 764 aims to amend existing laws regarding the taking and possession of mute swans, classifying them as nongame birds. The bill allows for the taking and possession of mute swans under specific conditions without requiring a hunting license, similar to other listed nongame birds. This legislation is intended to manage the population of mute swans in California and to encourage reporting of such actions to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Taking and Possession of Mute Swans: The bill permits individuals to take or possess mute swans until January 1, 2031, without a hunting license, provided they comply with specified requirements.
Reporting Requirement: Individuals who take or possess a mute swan are encouraged to report this action to the Department of Fish and Wildlife. This aims to enhance data collection and monitoring of mute swan populations.
Data Collection: The Department of Fish and Wildlife is mandated to collect information regarding enforcement actions related to the taking and possession of mute swans. This will help in assessing the impact of the bill and the management of mute swan populations.
Exemptions for Landowners: Landowners or lessees, or their agents with written authority, are exempt from needing a hunting license or depredation permit when taking nongame birds, including mute swans, on their own land.
Licensing for Others: All other individuals taking a mute swan must be licensed as per Section 3007 of the Fish and Game Code.
General Public: Individuals interested in taking mute swans for management purposes will benefit from the reduced regulatory burden.
Landowners and Lessees: Those who own or lease land will have more flexibility in managing mute swan populations without the need for a hunting license.
Department of Fish and Wildlife: The department will be responsible for collecting data and enforcing the provisions of the bill, impacting their operational focus and resource allocation.
Effective Date: The provisions of this bill will remain in effect until January 1, 2031.
Legislative Journey: The bill passed through various committees and legislative votes, receiving majority support throughout its progression. It was approved by the Governor on October 7, 2025, and subsequently chaptered into law.
AB 764 represents a significant change in the management of mute swans in California, allowing for their taking and possession under less restrictive conditions. By encouraging reporting and data collection, the bill aims to support wildlife management efforts while balancing the interests of landowners and the general public.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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