Game Breeder
Kentucky Game Breeder
Permit 2026
Requirements and fees for raising and selling captive game animals in Kentucky. Kentucky requires a Wildlife Breeder Permit for propagating native wildlife in captivity for commercial purposes.
Facility Inspection
Record Keeping
Annual Renewal
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Annual Fee
$30.00
Per year, per permit
Facility Inspection
Required
Initial & periodic
Record Keeping
Required
Inventory & transactions
Agency
Kentucky Dept. of Fi...
Permit issuer
Covered Species
Game Species Covered in Kentucky
Game birds, white-tailed deer, elk, turkey
Step-by-Step
How to Apply for a Game Breeder Permit in Kentucky
1
Review Requirements
Contact Kentucky Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Resources to get the current application packet. Review species-specific requirements, especially for deer and elk which have additional disease testing requirements.
2
Prepare Your Facility
Your facility must pass inspection before or shortly after permit issuance. Ensure fencing, housing, and water systems meet Kentucky's standards for your target species. Game wardens or wildlife inspectors conduct the evaluation.
3
Submit Application & Fee
Submit your completed application to Kentucky Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Resources.
Annual permit fee: $30.00. Include all required documentation (property ownership or lease, facility plan, intended species list).
4
Maintain Required Records
Keep detailed records of all animals in your possession: births, deaths, purchases, and sales. Annual reports are typically required. Records must be available for inspection at any time by wildlife officers.
Permit Classes
Kentucky Permit Structure
Deer farm permit separate from upland bird propagation permit
Requirements
Kentucky Game Breeder Requirements
KY KDFWR permit, facility inspection, CWD testing for cervids, annual reports.
Source: Kentucky Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Resources (fw.ky.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current permit requirements and fees directly with Kentucky Dept. of Fish & Wildlife Resources.