Generally, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) may authorize the removal or killing of wildlife that is destroying or injuring property, or when necessary for wildlife management or research.  In 1996 the passage of Initiative Measure No. 655 prohibited, with certain exemptions, the hunting of black bears, cougars, bobcats, or lynx with the use of dogs.  One of the exemptions allows for employees or agents of a county, state, or federal agency, while acting in their official capacity, to hunt black bears, cougars, bobcats, or lynx with the use of dogs in order to protect livestock, domestic animals, private property, or the public safety.  Other exemptions allow for the pursuit, relocation, or capture for scientific purposes; or the hunting of black bears, cougars, or bobcats in order to protect endangered species.

The exemption authorizing an employee or agent of a county to hunt black bear, cougar, or bobcat with the aid of a dog for the purpose of protecting livestock, domestic animals, private property, or the public safety is removed.  Instead, an employee or agents of a county agency may conduct a cougar public safety response with the aid of a dog or dogs with authorization from the WDFW.