Game Breeder
Texas Game Breeder
Permit 2026
Requirements and fees for raising and selling captive game animals in Texas. Texas has one of the largest game breeding industries in the nation. Permits are required for deer breeding, game bird propagation, and exotic wildlife operations.
Facility Inspection
Record Keeping
Annual Renewal
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
Annual Fee
$52.00
Per year, per permit
Facility Inspection
Required
Initial & periodic
Record Keeping
Required
Inventory & transactions
Agency
Texas Parks & Wildli...
Permit issuer
Covered Species
Game Species Covered in Texas
White-tailed deer, exotic deer species, game birds, quail, wild turkey
Step-by-Step
How to Apply for a Game Breeder Permit in Texas
1
Review Requirements
Contact Texas Parks & Wildlife Department 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 Texas's standards for your target species. Game wardens or wildlife inspectors conduct the evaluation.
3
Submit Application & Fee
Submit your completed application to Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Annual permit fee: $52.00. 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
Texas Permit Structure
Deer Breeder Permit (Class I/II/III by herd size); Exotic Species Permit; Quail Propagation permit
Requirements
Texas Game Breeder Requirements
TPWD permit, facility inspection, mandatory CWD testing, full harvest and transfer records.
Important Notes
Texas-Specific Information
Texas deer breeding is a $4 billion industry; strict regulation and CWD oversight.
Source: Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (tpwd.texas.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Always confirm current permit requirements and fees directly with Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.