Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in Arkansas?

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in Arkansas. Arkansas has an active state wildlife rehabilitation association and good network of licensed rehabilitators.

Rehabilitators handling migratory birds must also obtain a federal permit from USFWS Region 4. Your state permit must come first — see the federal permit guide for that process.

Core Requirements

Application Steps

  1. Complete Required Training

    Complete NWRA or IWRC-equivalent training. Contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.

  2. Prepare Your Facility

    Build or certify enclosures meeting Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) minimum standards. Use the free facility checklist as a starting framework, then verify against Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC)'s current published requirements.

  3. Secure Veterinary Support

    Get written confirmation from a licensed Arkansas veterinarian agreeing to provide care to your rehabilitation animals. See tips for finding sponsors and vets.

  4. Submit Your Application

    Contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) wildlife permits office to obtain the current application form and submit with all supporting documentation. Application fee: None.

  5. Pass Facility Inspection

    A Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) representative will inspect your facility before your permit is issued. Review the facility inspection guide to prepare. Estimated total timeline: 5–10 months.

Permit Renewal in Arkansas

Permits in Arkansas 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 Arkansas

Arkansas falls under USFWS Region 4. 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. Arkansas 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 Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) 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 Arkansas requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) directly for current deer rehabilitation policy — restrictions are actively managed and can change. Most individual home-based rehabilitators are not authorized for deer.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Requirements change — verify current standards directly with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) before applying. Not legal advice.