License Details
The license listed on this page allows for the collection, possession, or sale of the following New York State (NYS) native species and state and federally listed Threatened or Endangered Species for propagation (breeding):
- Fish (freshwater)
- Wildlife
- Shellfish (freshwater)
- Crustaceans (freshwater)
- Aquatic insects
- Birds listed as migratory by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (includes non-native species). To view the list, visit the USFWS Migratory Bird List
- Captive bred or permanently disabled species
For the collection of marine species, see the License to Collect, Possess or Sell: Marine Resources webpage.
Fee
There is no fee for this license
Duration
Licenses are valid for 1 year from license issuance
What This License Allows
Possession and Sale of the following species for propagation purposes:
- Captive bred or permanently disabled native non-endangered or non-threatened species of fish and wildlife.
- Native wild non-endangered or non-threatened species of fish and wildlife.
- Captive-bred, state or federally listed endangered or threatened species obtained from legal sources in conjunction with a state/federal sanctioned propagation program
- Permanently disabled and non-releasable NYS native species obtained from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator – NOTE: a licensed veterinarian must verify that the animal is permanently disabled and not able to be released back to the wild.
What This License Does Not Allow
- Possession of regulated species as pets.
- Exhibition of regulated species.
- Possession and/or collection of marine species. For information on marine species licenses, please visit the License to Collect, Possess or Sell: Marine Resources webpage.
- Collection of freshwater mussels associated with waterbody disturbance projects (e.g. bridge maintenance/construction, dredging, etc.) For license information on these activities, please visit the Freshwater Mussel Survey / Relocation License to Collect or Possess webpage.
Definitions
Propagation: production of selected species by application of husbandry techniques in a controlled environment for commercial or other authorized purposes, where the purpose of such activity is to enhance the propagation or survival of the species.
Threatened: native species designated by the department, which are likely to become endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of their range; or are species listed as threatened by the U.S. Department of the Interior in the Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR part 17).
Endangered: native species designated by the department, in imminent danger of extirpation or extinction in New York State; or are species listed as endangered by the U.S. Department of the Interior in the Code of Federal Regulations (50 CFR part 17).
Endangered and Threatened Species Lists
- New York State listing of endangered and threatened species
- Federal listing of endangered and threatened species
How To Apply
- Complete the License to Propagate Wildlife application (PDF) application form available in the table above. You may also contact the Special Licenses Unit at [email protected] to request an application.
- Obtain any additional required permits, licenses or letters as noted in "other possible requirements" below
- Send completed information to the following address: NYSDEC Special Licenses Unit, 625 Broadway, Albany NY 12233-4752
Other Possible Requirements
- Designated Agents Forms (PDF) – use this form to list other individuals who will assist the license holder with activities authorized by the license. Designated agents assisting the licensee on or off premises, must be listed on the license as a designated agent prior to conducting any authorized activities.
- USFWS Migratory Bird or Eagle Permit – Needed when collecting or possessing federally listed migratory birds or eagles.
- DEC Temporary Revocable Permit – needed when conducting activities on New York State managed lands or conservation easements.
- For requesting transfer of a NY native animal from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator – a letter from a veterinarian who has examined the animal and found it to be permanently disabled and cannot be released to the wild.
Current License Holder Information
License Renewal
- All licenses expire 1 year from the date of issuance.
- To renew your license, you must complete the renewal paperwork that will be mailed to you approximately 6 weeks prior to license expiration.
Please note: renewal of a license is the licensee’s responsibility, if you do not receive a renewal application from the Department at least 4 weeks prior to license expiration, please contact the Special Licenses Unit to receive the application.
Annual Report of Activities
- Licensees are required to compile and submit an annual report of activities each year as specified by their license conditions
- Fish and Wildlife Propagation Report Form (PDF)
License Amendments
License amendments can be submitted using the License Amendment Request form (PDF).
Choosing not to Renew Propagation License
If you no longer wish to possess the licensed species, please complete the license renewal paperwork indicating you do not wish to renew and provide the Special License Unit with the final dispositions of the animals possessed under the license. Species must be transferred to properly licensed individuals.
Applicable Laws and Regulations
Environmental Conservation Law (ECL)
Please visit New York State Legislature website.
- 11-0515 Licenses to Collect, Possess or Sell for Propagation, Scientific or Exhibition Purposes
- 11-0535 Endangered and Threatened Species, Species of Special Concern
- 11-0536 Sale of Certain Wild Animals or Wild Animal Products Prohibited
- 11-0537 Bald and Golden Eagles; Prohibited Acts
New York Codes Rules and Regulations (NYCRR)
- 6 NYCRR Part 175 - Special Licenses and Permits - Definitions and Uniform Procedures
- 6 NYCRR Part 182 - Endangered and Threatened Species of Fish and Wildlife Species of Special Concern
Contact Information
Please contact the Special Licenses Unit with any questions or concerns about qualifying or applying for these licenses.
DEC Special Licenses Unit
625 Broadway, 5th Floor
Albany, NY 12233-4752
Phone: 518-402-8985
E-mail: [email protected]
For other permit or license requirements noted above, please contact the appropriate organization listed below.
