Access Participant Application
 Illinois Recreational Access Program - IRAP Information and Instructions


The IRAP Access Permits are provided through the cooperation of landowners and the IL Dept of Natural Resources. Participating in this program is a special privilege. Please be respectful, ethical and safe outdoor recreationalists.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ IRAP program has secured private property from willing landowners for specific outdoor recreational activities. You can register online and make online reservations online for the following activities:
  • Squirrel hunting
  • Rabbit hunting
  • Pond Fishing
  • Streambank Fishing along Illinois Public Waterways
The following activities are available through  Illinois Recreational Access Program
  • Spring turkey hunting for youth and adults
  • Youth Firearm Season hunting
  • Archery deer hunting for youth and adults in October and late December
  • Waterfowl hunting in November and December
  • Upland Game with Rabbit hunting in December
IRAP activity-specific locations are available once an individual is registered as an IRAP Participant.
Eligibility
  1. Any U.S. citizen may apply for an IRAP Access permit.
  2. Applicant must not have been convicted of any felony crimes.
  3. If applicable, possess a valid fishing license.
  4. If applicable, possess a valid driver’s license or other form of picture ID.
  5. Must agree to follow all rules and regulations for the IL Recreational Access Program (IRAP) and any other applicable state and federal laws.
Application Process
  • Each individual participating in the IRAP Access program must apply for and receive an IRAP Participant Number.
  • To apply: legibly provide all of the data requested on the application including: Driver’s license and fishing license, IDNR customer number (if applicable), full name, date of birth, address, phone number, signature, and email address on the IRAP Access Permit Application (attachment A).
  • Anyone under the age of 18 must also register and receive an IRAP Participant number and be accompanied by an adult who also is registered as an IRAP Participant.
  • Review and sign the Release and Waiver of Liability (attachment B) form stating you, the IRAP Participant assumes any and all risks associated with IRAP’s Private Land Access activities. This form must be signed by all IRAP participants over the age of 10.
  • Once you have registered online and received you IRAP Participant Number via email confirmation, you may make up to 3 reservations per IRAP activity on IRAP activity-specific sites.
  • When you have made a reservation, you will then print your IRAP permits for the date reserved for that specific activity and site. You must put the car permit in your windshield and carry the smaller permit with you at all times while at the IRAP site.
If any of the above conditions are unacceptable to you, please do not apply for this IRAP ACCESS Permit
Contact Information
For more information on this and other Illinois Recreational Access Programs visit the website at: dnr.illinois.gov/conservation/IRAP
Or contact: IRAP Program Manager
IL Department of Natural Resources
One Natural Resources Way
Springfield, IL 62702
Phone: 217-782-0137
DNR.IRAP@illinois.gov