Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in Nebraska?

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in Nebraska. Nebraska has a smaller rehabilitation community supported by the Nebraska Wildlife Rehabilitators Association.

Rehabilitators handling migratory birds must also obtain a federal permit from USFWS Region 6. 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 training. Contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.

  2. Prepare Your Facility

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

  3. Secure Veterinary Support

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

  4. Submit Your Application

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

  5. Pass Facility Inspection

    A Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) 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 Nebraska

Permits in Nebraska 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 Nebraska

Nebraska falls under USFWS Region 6. 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. Nebraska 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 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) 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 Nebraska requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) 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 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) before applying. Not legal advice.