Use of a computer or other device to remotely hunt wildlife prohibited -- Trail cameras -- Criminal penalty

(1) As used in this section, "trail camera" means a device that is not held or manually operated by a person and is capable of capturing images, video, or location data of wildlife using heat or motion to trigger the device. (2) A person may not use a computer or other device to remotely control the aiming and discharge of a firearm or other weapon for hunting an animal. (3) A person who violates Subsection (2) is guilty of a class A misdemeanor. (4) (a) A trail camera using internal data storage and not capable of transmitting data is permitted for use on private lands for the purposes of taking protected wildlife. (b) A trail camera may not be used to take wildlife on public land during the period beginning on July 31 and ending on December 31. (c) A trail camera is prohibited on public land during the period beginning on July 31 and ending on December 31, except for use by: (i) the division for monitoring or research; (ii) a land management agency in the course of the land management agency's regular duties; (iii) any of the following conducting research in conjunction with the division: (A) a non-governmental organization; (B) an educational institution; or (C) other person; (iv) monitoring active agricultural operations including the take of a bear or cougar that is causing livestock depredation; or (v) a municipality participating in a program addressing urban deer. (5) (a) In accordance with Title 63G, Chapter 3, Utah Administrative Rulemaking Act, the Wildlife Board may make rules regulating the use of trail cameras. (b) A person who violates rules made by the Wildlife Board under this Subsection (5) is subject to the penalty provided in Section 23A-5-301.