Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in Alaska?
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in Alaska. Alaska's unique wildlife includes marine mammals and polar species that may fall under additional federal jurisdiction.
Rehabilitators handling migratory birds must also obtain a federal permit from USFWS Region 7. Your state permit must come first — see the federal permit guide for that process.
Core Requirements
- Age 18 or older
- Complete an approved training course: ADF&G-approved training
- Facility meeting Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) minimum standards for your intended species
- Written veterinary support from a licensed Alaska veterinarian
- Pass a facility inspection by Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G)
- Submit complete application with all documentation
Application Steps
Complete Required Training
Complete ADF&G-approved training. Contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.
Prepare Your Facility
Build or certify enclosures meeting Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) minimum standards. Use the free facility checklist as a starting framework, then verify against Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G)'s current published requirements.
Secure Veterinary Support
Get written confirmation from a licensed Alaska veterinarian agreeing to provide care to your rehabilitation animals. See tips for finding sponsors and vets.
Submit Your Application
Contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) wildlife permits office to obtain the current application form and submit with all supporting documentation. Application fee: None.
Pass Facility Inspection
A Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) representative will inspect your facility before your permit is issued. Review the facility inspection guide to prepare. Estimated total timeline: 5–12 months.
Permit Renewal in Alaska
Permits in Alaska are renewed annually. Annual activity reports documenting intakes and outcomes are required. See the permit renewal guide for details.
Getting the Federal Bird Permit for Alaska
Alaska falls under USFWS Region 7. After receiving your state permit, apply via fws.gov/epermits (Form 3-200-10b) with 100 documented hours per bird category, facility photos, and a copy of your state permit. Processing typically takes 6–14 weeks. Full details: federal permit guide.
Yes. Alaska law prohibits possession of native wildlife without a permit. The 24–48 hour transport exception allows you to move an injured animal to a licensed rehabilitator — but does not authorize care. See the full legal guide.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) can provide a list of currently permitted rehabilitators in your region. The NWRA and IWRC directories also list members. Your state wildlife rehabilitation association is a key resource for introductions and mentorship opportunities.
Deer rehabilitation in Alaska requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) directly for current deer rehabilitation policy — restrictions are actively managed and can change. Most individual home-based rehabilitators are not authorized for deer.