Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in South Dakota?
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in South Dakota. South Dakota's prairie and Black Hills environments support specific raptor and grassland species needs.
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
- Age 18 or older
- Complete an approved training course: NWRA or IWRC training
- Facility meeting South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) minimum standards for your intended species
- Written veterinary support from a licensed South Dakota veterinarian
- Pass a facility inspection by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP)
- Submit complete application with all documentation
Application Steps
Complete Required Training
Complete NWRA or IWRC training. Contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.
Prepare Your Facility
Build or certify enclosures meeting South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) minimum standards. Use the free facility checklist as a starting framework, then verify against South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP)'s current published requirements.
Secure Veterinary Support
Get written confirmation from a licensed South Dakota veterinarian agreeing to provide care to your rehabilitation animals. See tips for finding sponsors and vets.
Submit Your Application
Contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) wildlife permits office to obtain the current application form and submit with all supporting documentation. Application fee: None.
Pass Facility Inspection
A South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) representative will inspect your facility before your permit is issued. Review the facility inspection guide to prepare. Estimated total timeline: 5–11 months.
Permit Renewal in South Dakota
Permits in South Dakota 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 South Dakota
South Dakota 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. South Dakota 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 South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) 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 South Dakota requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) directly for current deer rehabilitation policy — restrictions are actively managed and can change. Most individual home-based rehabilitators are not authorized for deer.