Who Issues Wildlife Rehabilitation Permits in Washington?
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is the primary authority for wildlife rehabilitation permits in Washington. Washington's coastal environment creates significant seabird and Pacific flyway waterfowl rehabilitation needs.
Rehabilitators handling migratory birds must also obtain a federal permit from USFWS Region 1. 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: a WDFW-approved training course
- Facility meeting Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) minimum standards for your intended species
- Written veterinary support from a licensed Washington veterinarian
- Pass a facility inspection by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
- Submit complete application with all documentation
Application Steps
Complete Required Training
Complete a WDFW-approved training course. Contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) or your state wildlife rehabilitation association for current approved providers and schedules.
Prepare Your Facility
Build or certify enclosures meeting Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) minimum standards. Use the free facility checklist as a starting framework, then verify against Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)'s current published requirements.
Secure Veterinary Support
Get written confirmation from a licensed Washington veterinarian agreeing to provide care to your rehabilitation animals. See tips for finding sponsors and vets.
Submit Your Application
Contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) wildlife permits office to obtain the current application form and submit with all supporting documentation. Application fee: None.
Pass Facility Inspection
A Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) 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 Washington
Permits in Washington 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 Washington
Washington falls under USFWS Region 1. 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. Washington 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 Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) 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 Washington requires authorization beyond the standard permit due to CWD management concerns. Contact the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) directly for current deer rehabilitation policy — restrictions are actively managed and can change. Most individual home-based rehabilitators are not authorized for deer.