Captive Wildlife Permit

A Captive Wildlife Permit is required to retain any wild birds or wild mammals in captivity for personal use or to raise game birds for release and/or sell game birds or mammals. Wild mammals and birds including their eggs may not be taken from the wild but are to be obtained from those holding appropriate permits. Controlled Shooting Areas and Falconry regulations allow for the possession of wild birds and do not require a Captive Wildlife Permit.

Pheasants, quail, mallards, and partridge (chukars, Hungarian) can be raised and released onto privately owned land but may not be released on public land. A Captive Wildlife Permit is required if these birds are kept for more than fourteen days beyond the date of purchase. Birds purchased for dog training that are released within fourteen days of purchase do not require a Captive Wildlife Permit. See Dog Training for more information.

If you live within city limits, check with your local Animal Control Office, City Attorney or applicable city office to determine if a specific animal may be kept in captivity. Animals such as raccoons are not allowed in some cities and towns.

Apply

To apply for a Captive Wildlife Permit, visit www.gooutdoorsne.com and select “Commercial Hobbyist” or download and fill out an application form and send payment of $33 to: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503.

Online captive wildlife permits

Things to note before applying

• Applicants should review all state regulations (see below) before applying.
• Before a permit is issued, a Conservation Officer will come to your property and inspect pens or enclosures to ensure there is adequate shelter and structures for the animals you wish to acquire. After you pass inspection, a permit will be issued and you can purchase the animals you indicated you want to raise.
• For some animals, such as raccoons, proof of purchase may be required. An annual accounting of animal inventory and a renewal form is to be submitted by Dec. 31 each year to the appropriate Commission District or Service Center Office.
• When applying in November or December, select the year you want your permit to start. If you receive a permit in November or December, you will still be required to report and renew in January for the next year.
• Annual reporting and permit renewal is required and is due annually by Jan. 15, even if you do not have captive wildlife in your possession.
• A sale/transport tag is to be issued when selling or transferring animals held under a Captive Wildlife permit. To purchase sale/transport tags contact Regina Linn at Regina.Linn@nebraska.gov or visit your local commission office.