Dove & Migratory Birds
South Carolina Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in South Carolina. South Carolina is a top dove hunting state with early September season opener.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$12.00
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$75.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 doves combined; 3 woodcock
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in South Carolina
Dove: Sept 1–Oct 15; Nov–Dec; and January segment
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with SC Dept. of Natural Resources.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in South Carolina
1
Purchase a South Carolina Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $12.00 applies. Purchase through SC Dept. of Natural Resources online or at an authorized license agent.
2
Complete Free HIP Registration
HIP registration is free and quick - answer a brief survey about last year's migratory bird harvests. This is typically completed when purchasing your hunting license at a license agent or online. You must have a valid HIP registration number before hunting doves or other migratory birds.
3
Check Season Dates & Bag Limits
Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 doves combined; 3 woodcock. Dove: Sept 1–Oct 15; Nov–Dec; and January segment Always confirm current season dates with SC Dept. of Natural Resources before hunting.
Requirements
South Carolina Migratory Bird Requirements
SC hunting license + HIP required.
Source: SC Dept. of Natural Resources (www.dnr.sc.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with SC Dept. of Natural Resources and USFWS before hunting.