Title 301 | Chapter 003 | Regulation 120REG
PROPOSED
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TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE CABINET
Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(Amendment)
301 KAR 3:120.Commercial nuisance wildlife control.
Section 1.
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(9)
Section 2.
Permitting Requirements.(1)
A WCO permit authorizes a WCO(2)
A person shall apply for and obtain a valid WCO(a)
A correct and complete Commercial WCO(b)
A Commercial WCO(3)
The department shall only grant a permit to a person who:(a)
Is eighteen (18) years old or over;(b)
Has not been convicted of a violation of KRS Chapter 150 or the administrative regulations promulgated under its authority within the denial period established in this administrative regulation;(c)
Provides proof of a passing score on the National Wildlife Control Training Program course, except a person who passed the department issued examination prior to the effective date of this administrative regulation shall not be required to complete the National Wildlife Control Training Program course;(d)
Remits the correct annual permit fee as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022(e)
Provides a complete and correct Commercial WCO(f)
Provides a valid email address.(4)
A WCO(5)
The WCO(6)
A permitted WCOSection 2.Section 3.
Reporting Requirements.(1)
A WCO(2)
A WCO(a)
No later than March 30; and(b)
Prior to a permit being renewed.(3)
The Commercial WCO(4)
A WCO shall submit tissue or other biological samples from dispatched animals as determined by the department.(a)
White-tailed deer taken in CWD Surveillance Zone Counties shall be submitted for testing as determined by a department representative;1.
Request sample submission instructions from the Wildlife Health Program by email at wildlifehealth@ky.gov.2.
Submit deer heads to the department within forty-eight (48) hours of take or freeze and retain the head for submission as directed by a department representative.(b)
A list of other tissues and biological samples from dispatched animals to be removed by WCO's will be maintained on the department's website at: https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Pages/Commercial-Wildlife-Control-Operator.aspx(5)(4)
The department shall not renew the WCO permit of an operator who does not:(a)
Submit the Commercial WCO(b)
Provide the information required by the Commercial WCO(c)
Submit tissue or other biological samples to the department as established in this section.(6)(5)
Report documents and all records of WCOSection 3.Section 4.
Restrictions on Taking Wildlife.(1)
A WCO(2)
A WCO shall only take white-tailed deer in an area that has been deemed to be experiencing wildlife damage by a department representative as established in 301 KAR 2:176;(a)
Only the WCO designated on a valid Wildlife Damage Designee Form per 301 KAR 2.176 is permitted to take white-tailed deer under this section;(b)
Must be in possession of a valid Wildlife Damage Designee Form while performing WCO duties to take white-tailed deer and maintain copies for submission with the Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report; and(c)
Adhere to all CWD Surveillance Zone Regulations as established in 301 KAR 2.172.(3)(2)
A WCO(a)
Transport(b)
Release wildlife in any area that restricts their free movement or holds them captive;(c)
Hold wildlife for more than forty-eight (48) hours;(d)
Take federally protected wildlife unless a valid permit for the activity is issued by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the species of(e)
Take the species established in subparagraphs 1. through 8. of this paragraph unless authorized by the commissioner:1.
Copperbelly water snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta);2.
2.3.
Elk (Cervus canadensis);3.4.
Black bear (Ursus americanus);4.5.
Wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo);5.6.
Kirtland's snake (Clonophis kirtlandii);6.7.
Alligator Snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii);7.8.
Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis); or(f)
Dispatch or cause death to bats.Section 4.Section 5.
Legal Means of Take.(1)
A WCO(a)
KRS 150.410; and(b)
The trapping requirements in 301 KAR 2:251.(2)
A WCO shall comply with weapon restrictions as established in 301 KAR 2:172 when taking white-tailed deer;(a)
Must comply with all local ordinances regarding the discharge of firearms in city limits.(b)
WCO shall not use traps to take white-tailed deer; or(c)
Use chemical immobilization drugs in free-ranging wildlife as established in 301 KAR 4:110.(3)(2)
A WCOSection 5.Section 6.
Dispatch of Captured Wildlife.(1)
The department may, upon issuing a WCO permit, specify that certain species shall be dispatched.(a)
The requirement that a species be dispatched may apply statewide or to certain geographical regions.(b)
If the requirement that a species be dispatched is made to apply:1.
Statewide, all WCO permits issued in that permit year shall contain the same requirement; or2.
To a limited geographical area, all WCO permits issued in that area shall contain the same requirement.(2)
A WCO(a)
House sparrow (Passer domesticus);(b)
European starling (Sturnus vulgaris);(c)
Pigeon (Columba domestica or Columba livia);(d)
Nutria (Myocaster coypus);(e)
House mouse (Mus musculus);(f)
(g)
Wildlife that shows obvious symptoms of disease or injury, except for federally protected species and bats; or(h)
Any rabies vector species captured within the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone at the capture site before being moved.(3)
Legal methods of dispatching wildlife shall include:(a)
Captive bolt;(b)
Gunshot;(c)
Submersion, for wildlife trapped in water sets, pursuant to 301 KAR 2:251;(d)
Cervical dislocation or thoracic compression for small mammals and birds, except for federally protected species and bats;(e)
Mechanical stunning, if followed immediately by an acceptable dispatch method;(f)
Inhalants, including halothane, isoflurane, carbon monoxide, or carbon dioxide;(g)
Commercially available agents for striped skunks, in accordance with manufacturer's specifications, except that prohibited methods of dispatch listed in this section shall not be used;(h)
Commercially available rodenticides used on small rodents in accordance with manufacturer specifications, except that prohibited methods of dispatch listed in this section shall not be used; or(i)
Archery or crossbow equipment as established in 301 KAR 2:172 when taking white-tailed deer only.(4)
Prohibited methods of dispatch:(a)
Extra-label use of chemicals, toxicants, or poisons is prohibited.(b)
Per KRS 150.365, the following methods of take are prohibited:1.
Fire;2.
Explosives;3.
Mechanical, electrical, or hand operated sonic recording devices; or4.
Gas or smoke in a den, hole, or nest of wildlife.Section 6.Section 7.
Release of Captured Wildlife.(1)
A WCO(a)
Transport wildlife for release in a safe manner that minimizes stress to the animal;(b)
Only release non-rabies vector species of wildlife:1.
On-site; or2.
In a rural habitat suitable for the particular species in which wildlife movement is unrestricted; and3.
With the written permission of:a.
The private landowner of at least 100 contiguous acres;b.
The private landowners of contiguous properties totaling at least 100 acres; orc.
The agency responsible for management of public land totaling at least 300 acres.(c)
Only release rabies vector species of wildlife captured outside the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;1.
On-site;2.
In a rural habitat suitable for the particular species within the county of capture in which wildlife movement is unrestricted; and3.
With the written permission of:a.
The private landowner of at least 100 contiguous acres;b.
The private landowners of contiguous properties totaling at least 100 acres; orc.
The agency responsible for management of public land totaling at least 300 acres.(2)
A WCO(a)
Transport a rabies vector species into, out of, or within the enhanced rabies surveillance zone;(b)
ReleaseSection 7.Section 8.
Disposal of Carcasses. A WCO(1)
Complete incineration of the entire carcass and all of its parts and products;(2)
Placing the carcass in a contained landfill as established in KRS Chapter 224;(3)
Burying the carcass and all its parts and products in the earth:(a)
In a location that is never covered with the overflow of ponds or streams;(b)
Not less than 100 feet from any watercourse, sinkhole, well, spring, public highway, residence, or stable; and(c)
At least one (1) foot deep and covered with one (1) foot of earth; or(4)
Removing the carcass by a duly licensed rendering establishment.(5)
A WCO shall comply with carcass disposal requirements for white-tailed deer and elk as established in 301 KAR 2:245; and(a)
Relinquish to the department, destroy, or leave afield all inedible parts.(b)
Adhere to carcass movement restrictions when taking deer inside of a CWD Surveillance Zone as established in 301 KAR 2:172.Section 8.Section 9.
Revocation and Denial of Permits and Appeal Procedure.(1)
The department shall revoke the WCO permit without refund, deny the issuance of a new WCO permit, or deny a renewal of an existing or lapsed WCO permit and confiscate wildlife of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of a violation of any provisions of:1.
KRS Chapter 150;2.
301 KAR Chapters 1 through 5;3.
Any federal statute or regulation related to hunting, fishing, or wildlife; or4.
Another state's fish and wildlife law.(b)
Fails to comply with the provisions of this administrative regulation or 301 KAR 2:041, 301 KAR 2:075, 301 KAR 2:081, or 301 KAR 2:251;(c)
Provides false information on a Commercial WCO(d)
Takes(e)
Takes(f)
Takes federally protected species without a federal permit;(g)
Possesses wildlife over forty-eight (48) hours;(h)
Fails to dispatch rabies vector species at capture site in the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;(i)
Transports rabies vector species into, out of, or within the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;(j)
Transports rabies vector species captured outside the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone to a location outside the county of capture;(k)
Fails to comply with any provision of KRS Chapter 150, any administrative regulation of the department, or hunting, fishing, or wildlife laws of the federal government;(l)
Allows non-permitted persons to assist or conduct WCO(m)
Fails to submit tissue or other biological samples from dispatched animals to the department.(2)
A person whose WCO permit is denied or revoked may request an administrative hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(a)
A request for a hearing shall be in writing and postmarked or delivered in person to the department no later than thirty (30) days after notification of the denial or revocation.(b)
Upon receipt of the request for a hearing, the department shall proceed according to the provisions of KRS Chapter 13B.(c)
The hearing officer's recommended order shall be considered by the commissioner and the commissioner shall issue a final order pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(3)
Denial period.(a)
An applicant for a WCO1.
The initial denial period shall be one (1) year;2.
A second denial period shall be three (3) years; and3.
A third or subsequent denial period shall be five (5) years.(b)
During the denial period, a person whoseSection 9.Section 10.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"Commercial(b)
"Commercial(2)
The material may be inspected, copied, or obtained subject to applicable copyright law, at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or online at(a)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/WCO-Permit-App.pdf for the "Commercial(b)
https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Documents/nwcoreportform.pdf for the "Commercial(3)
This material may also be found on the department's Web site at: https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Pages/Commercial-Wildlife-Control-Operator.aspxAPPROVED by the Fish and Wildlife Commission
RICH STORM, Commissioner
APPROVED BY AGENCY: July 7, 2025
FILED WITH LRC: July 9, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on September 29, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., at KDFWR Administration Building, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through September 30, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person.
CONTACT PERSON: Jenny Gilbert, Legislative Liaison, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, (502) 564-3400, fax: (502) 564-0506, email: fwpubliccomments@ky.gov
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jenny Gilbert
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial wildlife control permits and wildlife control operators.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
This regulation authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife causing damage under commercial wildlife control permits.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025(1)(h) authorizes the department to promulgate any other administrative regulations reasonably necessary to implement or carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.105 authorizes the commissioner, with the approval of the commission, to authorize any person to destroy or bring under control any wild animal, fish, or wild birds, protected or unprotected, which are causing damage to persons, property, other animals, or spreading diseases. KRS 150.275 authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife at any time for commercial wildlife control. This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial wildlife control permits, and wildlife control operators. KRS 150.235 prohibits persons from performing acts authorized to be performed by a permit without first procuring the permit and the permit or license shall be kept on their person while conducting acts. KRS 150.170 prevents persons from doing any act or assisting a person with an act authorized by any kind of license or permit unless they hold the kind of permit that authorizes the act.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation will fulfill the purposes of KRS 150.170 and KRS 150.105 by providing a permitting mechanism for commercial wildlife control operators to take wildlife causing damage or threat to agriculture, human health, or property.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
This amendment removes any reference to fees and replaces them with a reference to the fee regulation, 301 KAR 5:022, and similarly updates any applicable material incorporated by reference. This amendment also removes all reference to "nuisance" wildlife and establishes the legal means and methods for WCOs who wish to take deer causing damage.
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
This amendment is necessary to allow future fee changes to be promulgated in 301 KAR 5:022 without the need for promulgating matching amendments to this regulation. This amendment also provides an avenue for WCOs to take deer causing damage which will help local farmers who experience yield loss to crops from deer damage.
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025(1) grants authority for the department to promulgate regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.175 sets out licenses and tags to be sold by the department. KRS 150.195 requires the department to establish administrative regulations to provide for the control, design, issuance, distribution, and other matters related to licenses and permits issued by the department.
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This amendment will consolidate any associated fees into a single fee regulation, 301 KAR 5:022. This amendment provides a new mechanism for the effective administration of KRS 150.105 which allows the Dept. to bring under control animals causing damage.
(3) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
All individuals who wish to obtain the associated license or permit.
(4) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (3) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (3) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
No action will be required to comply with the amendments, however, the individuals would need to look to 301 KAR 5:022 for the regulation which establishes the cost of the associated license or permit. WCOs will have to follow the restrictions on taking deer that are established by this amendment and comply with all annual reporting and sample submission requirements.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (3):
There will be no cost to comply with the amendments to this regulation.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (3):
Compliance with these amendments will allow individuals to obtain the associated license or permit.
(5) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
There will be no cost to implement these regulatory amendments initially.
(b) On a continuing basis:
There will be no continuing costs to implement these amendments.
(6) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation:
The Fish and Game Fund
(7) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
There will be no increase in fees or funding necessary to implement these changes.
(8) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
This administrative regulation does not establish any fees or directly or indirectly increase any fees. Any associated fees are addressed in 301 KAR 5:022.
(9) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
Tiering is not applied as all individuals will need to look to 301 KAR 5:022 for the regulation which establishes the cost of the associated permits. New WCO requirements for taking deer apply equally to all WCOs.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
KRS 150.025(1)(h) authorizes the department to promulgate any other administrative regulations reasonably necessary to implement or carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.105 authorizes the commissioner, with the approval of the commission, to authorize any person to destroy or bring under control any wild animal, fish, or wild birds, protected or unprotected, which are causing damage to persons, property, other animals, or spreading diseases. KRS 150.275 authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife at any time for commercial nuisance wildlife control. This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial nuisance wildlife control permits, and nuisance wildlife control operators. KRS 150.235 prohibits persons from performing acts authorized to be performed by a permit without first procuring the permit and the permit or license shall be kept on their person while conducting acts. KRS 150.170 prevents persons from doing any act or assisting a person with an act authorized by any kind of license or permit unless they hold the kind of permit that authorizes the act.
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
This amendment is not expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly but is promulgated pursuant to KRS 150.025 and 150.195.
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The promulgating agency is the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. No other state agencies are affected.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any additional expenditures for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any additional expenditures for the department.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any change in revenues for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any change in revenues for the department.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any cost savings for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any cost savings for the department.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
No local entities should be affected by these amendments.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
No other entities should be affected by these amendments.
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
This amendment will not have any significant fiscal impact.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
This amendment does not modify any fees or require affected entities to expend funds to comply with the amendments beyond those incidental to normal operations.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(13):
This amendment will not have a major economic impact.
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
This amendment does not increase any fees or otherwise create a financial burden to state or local government agencies or to regulated entities.
TOURISM, ARTS AND HERITAGE CABINET
Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources
(Amendment)
301 KAR 3:120.Commercial wildlife control.
Section 1.
.Permitting Requirements.(1)
A WCO permit authorizes a WCO to take wildlife year-round using lethal or non-lethal capture methods, provided the WCO has written or oral authorization from the person requesting control.(2)
A person shall apply for and obtain a valid WCO permit, prior to conducting WCO activities, by submitting:(a)
A correct and complete Commercial WCO Permit Application; and(b)
A Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report for renewal applications.(3)
The department shall only grant a permit to a person who:(a)
Is eighteen (18) years old or over;(b)
Has not been convicted of a violation of KRS Chapter 150 or the administrative regulations promulgated under its authority within the denial period established in this administrative regulation;(c)
Provides proof of a passing score on the National Wildlife Control Training Program course, except a person who passed the department issued examination prior to the effective date of this administrative regulation shall not be required to complete the National Wildlife Control Training Program course;(d)
Remits the correct annual permit fee as referenced at https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Pages/Fees.aspx and established in 301 KAR 5:022;(e)
Provides a complete and correct Commercial WCO Permit Application; and(f)
Provides a valid email address.(4)
A WCO shall always have their permit in their possession when performing the acts authorized by a WCO permit.(5)
The WCO permit shall be valid from March 1 through the last day of February.(6)
A permitted WCO wishing to sell the pelts of a furbearer taken during the statewide furbearer hunting and trapping season shall also possess a valid trapping license or hunting license, if applicable.Section 2.
Reporting Requirements.(1)
A WCO shall keep records of all wildlife taken in the course of WCO duties on the WCO Annual Activity Report.(2)
A WCO shall submit a Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report to the Department:(a)
No later than March 30; and(b)
Prior to a permit being renewed.(3)
The Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report shall contain the information regarding the activity for the period from February 1 of the previous year through January 31 of the current year. If white-tailed deer are taken, a WCO shall also include copies of all valid Wildlife Damage Designee Forms for landowners they worked with to take white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) during this period.(4)
A WCO shall submit tissue or other biological samples from dispatched animals as determined by the department.(a)
White-tailed deer taken in CWD Surveillance Zone Counties shall be submitted for testing as determined by a department representative;1.
Request sample submission instructions from the Wildlife Health Program by email at wildlifehealth@ky.gov.2.
Submit deer heads to the department within forty-eight (48) hours of take or freeze and retain the head for submission as directed by a department representative.(b)
A list of other tissues and biological samples from dispatched animals to be removed by WCO's will be maintained on the department's website at: https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Pages/Commercial-Wildlife-Control-Operator.aspx.](5)
The department shall not renew the WCO permit of an operator who does not:(a)
Submit the Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report as required by this section;(b)
Provide the information required by the Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report; or(c)
Submit tissue or other biological samples to the department as established in this section.(6)
Report documents and all records of WCO activity, including the current or previous year's activity and written permission for releases, shall be made available to department staff upon request.Section 3.
Restrictions on Taking Wildlife.(1)
A WCO shall only dispatch or release captured wildlife according to the requirements in this administrative regulation, except for federally protected species that meet the criteria in Sections 3, 5, and 6 of this administrative regulation.(2)
A WCO shall only take white-tailed deer in an area that has been deemed to be experiencing wildlife damage by a department representative as established in 301 KAR 2:176;(a)
Only the WCO designated on a valid Wildlife Damage Designee Form per 301 KAR 2.176 is permitted to take white-tailed deer under this section;(b)
Must be in possession of a valid Wildlife Damage Designee Form while performing WCO duties to take white-tailed deer and maintain copies for submission with the Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report; and(c)
Adhere to all CWD Surveillance Zone Regulations as established in 301 KAR 2.172.(3)
A WCO shall not:(a)
Transport wildlife to a wildlife rehabilitator or any person or facility that holds wildlife captive, except that a WCO shall immediately transport injured, ill, orphaned, or exhausted federally protected species to a permitted wildlife rehabilitator within Kentucky;(b)
Release wildlife in any area that restricts their free movement or holds them captive;(c)
Hold wildlife for more than forty-eight (48) hours;(d)
Take federally protected wildlife unless a valid permit for the activity is issued by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the species of wildlife, except that a federal permit is not required to herd or scare migratory birds, excluding bald and golden eagles and endangered or threatened species;(e)
Take the species established in subparagraphs 1. through 8. of this paragraph unless authorized by the commissioner:1.
Copperbelly water snake (Nerodia erythrogaster neglecta);2.
Elk (Cervus canadensis);3.
Black bear (Ursus americanus);4.
Wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo);5.
Kirtland's snake (Clonophis kirtlandii);6.
Alligator Snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii);7.
Hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis); or(f)
Dispatch or cause death to bats.Section 4.
Legal Means of Take.(1)
A WCO using traps shall comply with:(a)
KRS 150.410; and(b)
The trapping requirements in 301 KAR 2:251.(2)
A WCO shall comply with weapon restrictions as established in 301 KAR 2:172 when taking white-tailed deer;(a)
Must comply with all local ordinances regarding the discharge of firearms in city limits.(b)
WCO shall not use traps to take white-tailed deer; or(c)
Use chemical immobilization drugs in free-ranging wildlife as established in 301 KAR 4:110.(3)
A WCO using a firearm, air gun, archery or crossbow equipment shall provide proof of completion of the Kentucky Hunter Education Program or a course offered by another jurisdiction that meets the course standards set by the International Hunter Education Association.Section 5.
Dispatch of Captured Wildlife.(1)
The department may, upon issuing a WCO permit, specify that certain species shall be dispatched.(a)
The requirement that a species be dispatched may apply statewide or to certain geographical regions.(b)
If the requirement that a species be dispatched is made to apply:1.
Statewide, all WCO permits issued in that permit year shall contain the same requirement; or2.
To a limited geographical area, all WCO permits issued in that area shall contain the same requirement.(2)
A WCO shall dispatch:(a)
House sparrow (Passer domesticus);(b)
European starling (Sturnus vulgaris);(c)
Pigeon (Columba domestica or Columba livia);(d)
Nutria (Myocaster coypus);(e)
House mouse (Mus musculus);(f)
Rat (Rattus norvegicus or Rattus rattus);(g)
Wildlife that shows obvious symptoms of disease or injury, except for federally protected species and bats; or(h)
Any rabies vector species captured within the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone at the capture site before being moved.(3)
Legal methods of dispatching wildlife shall include:(a)
Captive bolt;(b)
Gunshot;(c)
Submersion, for wildlife trapped in water sets, pursuant to 301 KAR 2:251;(d)
Cervical dislocation or thoracic compression for small mammals and birds, except for federally protected species and bats;(e)
Mechanical stunning, if followed immediately by an acceptable dispatch method;(f)
Inhalants, including halothane, isoflurane, carbon monoxide, or carbon dioxide;(g)
Commercially available agents for striped skunks, in accordance with manufacturer's specifications, except that prohibited methods of dispatch listed in this section shall not be used;(h)
Commercially available rodenticides used on small rodents in accordance with manufacturer specifications, except that prohibited methods of dispatch listed in this section shall not be used; or(i)
Archery or crossbow equipment as established in 301 KAR 2:172 when taking white-tailed deer only.(4)
Prohibited methods of dispatch:(a)
Extra-label use of chemicals, toxicants, or poisons is prohibited.(b)
Per KRS 150.365, the following methods of take are prohibited:1.
Fire;2.
Explosives;3.
Mechanical, electrical, or hand operated sonic recording devices; or4.
Gas or smoke in a den, hole, or nest of wildlife.Section 6.
Release of Captured Wildlife.(1)
A WCO shall:(a)
Transport wildlife for release in a safe manner that minimizes stress to the animal;(b)
Only release non-rabies vector species of wildlife:1.
On-site; or2.
In a rural habitat suitable for the particular species in which wildlife movement is unrestricted; and3.
With the written permission of:a.
The private landowner of at least 100 contiguous acres;b.
The private landowners of contiguous properties totaling at least 100 acres; orc.
The agency responsible for management of public land totaling at least 300 acres.(c)
Only release rabies vector species of wildlife captured outside the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;1.
On-site;2.
In a rural habitat suitable for the particular species within the county of capture in which wildlife movement is unrestricted; and3.
With the written permission of:a.
The private landowner of at least 100 contiguous acres;b.
The private landowners of contiguous properties totaling at least 100 acres; orc.
The agency responsible for management of public land totaling at least 300 acres.(2)
A WCO shall not:(a)
Transport a rabies vector species into, out of, or within the enhanced rabies surveillance zone;(b)
Release wildlife in unsuitable habitat including any enclosed area that restricts free movement of wildlife or holds wildlife captive.Section 7.
Disposal of Carcasses. A WCO shall dispose of all wildlife carcasses, except white tail deer and elk, by:(1)
Complete incineration of the entire carcass and all of its parts and products;(2)
Placing the carcass in a contained landfill as established in KRS Chapter 224;(3)
Burying the carcass and all its parts and products in the earth:(a)
In a location that is never covered with the overflow of ponds or streams;(b)
Not less than 100 feet from any watercourse, sinkhole, well, spring, public highway, residence, or stable; and(c)
At least one (1) foot deep and covered with one (1) foot of earth; or(4)
Removing the carcass by a duly licensed rendering establishment.(5)
A WCO shall comply with carcass disposal requirements for white-tailed deer and elk as established in 301 KAR 2:245; and(a)
Relinquish to the department, destroy, or leave afield all inedible parts.(b)
Adhere to carcass movement restrictions when taking deer inside of a CWD Surveillance Zone as established in 301 KAR 2:172.Section 8.
Revocation and Denial of Permits and Appeal Procedure.(1)
The department shall revoke the WCO permit without refund, deny the issuance of a new WCO permit, or deny a renewal of an existing or lapsed WCO permit and confiscate wildlife of a person who:(a)
Is convicted of a violation of any provisions of:1.
KRS Chapter 150;2.
301 KAR Chapters 1 through 5;3.
Any federal statute or regulation related to hunting, fishing, or wildlife; or4.
Another state's fish and wildlife law.(b)
Fails to comply with the provisions of this administrative regulation or 301 KAR 2:041, 301 KAR 2:075, 301 KAR 2:081, or 301 KAR 2:251;(c)
Provides false information on a Commercial WCO Permit Application, Commercial WCO Annual Activity Report, federal permit, written permission for wildlife release, or records;(d)
Takes wildlife with methods not approved in this regulation or 301 KAR 2:251;(e)
Takes wildlife for commercial purposes without a valid commercial wildlife control permit;(f)
Takes federally protected species without a federal permit;(g)
Possesses wildlife over forty-eight (48) hours;(h)
Fails to dispatch rabies vector species at capture site in the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;(i)
Transports rabies vector species into, out of, or within the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone;(j)
Transports rabies vector species captured outside the Enhanced Rabies Surveillance Zone to a location outside the county of capture;(k)
Fails to comply with any provision of KRS Chapter 150, any administrative regulation of the department, or hunting, fishing, or wildlife laws of the federal government;(l)
Allows non-permitted persons to assist or conduct WCO activities or have direct contact with wildlife; or(m)
Fails to submit tissue or other biological samples from dispatched animals to the department.(2)
A person whose WCO permit is denied or revoked may request an administrative hearing pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(a)
A request for a hearing shall be in writing and postmarked or delivered in person to the department no later than thirty (30) days after notification of the denial or revocation.(b)
Upon receipt of the request for a hearing, the department shall proceed according to the provisions of KRS Chapter 13B.(c)
The hearing officer's recommended order shall be considered by the commissioner and the commissioner shall issue a final order pursuant to KRS Chapter 13B.(3)
Denial period.(a)
An applicant for a WCO permit whose permit has been revoked or denied for the grounds established in this section shall be ineligible to reapply, and all applications shall be denied for the period established below:1.
The initial denial period shall be one (1) year;2.
A second denial period shall be three (3) years; and3.
A third or subsequent denial period shall be five (5) years.(b)
During the denial period, a person whose wildlife control operator permit has been denied or revoked shall not operate as a WCO or assist in wildlife control activities.Section 9.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"Commercial Wildlife Control (WCO) Permit Application," 2025 edition; and(b)
"Commercial Wildlife Control Operator (WCO) Annual Activity Report," 2022 edition.(2)
The material may be inspected, copied, or obtained subject to applicable copyright law, at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, #1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or online at(a)
https://fw.ky.gov/Licenses/Documents/WCO-Permit-App.pdf for the "Commercial Wildlife Control (WCO ) Permit Application," and,(b)
https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Documents/nwcoreportform.pdf for the "Commercial Wildlife Control Operator (WCO ) Annual Activity Report".(3)
This material may also be found on the department's Web site at: https://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Pages/Commercial-Wildlife-Control-Operator.aspx for general WCO information.APPROVED by the Fish and Wildlife Commission
RICH STORM, Commissioner
APPROVED BY AGENCY: July 7, 2025
FILED WITH LRC: July 9, 2025 at 3:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on September 29, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., at KDFWR Administration Building, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through September 30, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person.
CONTACT PERSON: Jenny Gilbert, Legislative Liaison, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman’s Lane, (502) 564-3400, fax: (502) 564-0506, email: fwpubliccomments@ky.gov
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jenny Gilbert
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial wildlife control permits and wildlife control operators.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
This regulation authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife causing damage under commercial wildlife control permits.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025(1)(h) authorizes the department to promulgate any other administrative regulations reasonably necessary to implement or carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.105 authorizes the commissioner, with the approval of the commission, to authorize any person to destroy or bring under control any wild animal, fish, or wild birds, protected or unprotected, which are causing damage to persons, property, other animals, or spreading diseases. KRS 150.275 authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife at any time for commercial wildlife control. This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial wildlife control permits, and wildlife control operators. KRS 150.235 prohibits persons from performing acts authorized to be performed by a permit without first procuring the permit and the permit or license shall be kept on their person while conducting acts. KRS 150.170 prevents persons from doing any act or assisting a person with an act authorized by any kind of license or permit unless they hold the kind of permit that authorizes the act.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation will fulfill the purposes of KRS 150.170 and KRS 150.105 by providing a permitting mechanism for commercial wildlife control operators to take wildlife causing damage or threat to agriculture, human health, or property.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
This amendment removes any reference to fees and replaces them with a reference to the fee regulation, 301 KAR 5:022, and similarly updates any applicable material incorporated by reference. This amendment also removes all reference to "nuisance" wildlife and establishes the legal means and methods for WCOs who wish to take deer causing damage.
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
This amendment is necessary to allow future fee changes to be promulgated in 301 KAR 5:022 without the need for promulgating matching amendments to this regulation. This amendment also provides an avenue for WCOs to take deer causing damage which will help local farmers who experience yield loss to crops from deer damage.
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
KRS 150.025(1) grants authority for the department to promulgate regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.175 sets out licenses and tags to be sold by the department. KRS 150.195 requires the department to establish administrative regulations to provide for the control, design, issuance, distribution, and other matters related to licenses and permits issued by the department.
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This amendment will consolidate any associated fees into a single fee regulation, 301 KAR 5:022. This amendment provides a new mechanism for the effective administration of KRS 150.105 which allows the Dept. to bring under control animals causing damage.
(3) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
All individuals who wish to obtain the associated license or permit.
(4) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (3) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (3) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
No action will be required to comply with the amendments, however, the individuals would need to look to 301 KAR 5:022 for the regulation which establishes the cost of the associated license or permit. WCOs will have to follow the restrictions on taking deer that are established by this amendment and comply with all annual reporting and sample submission requirements.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (3):
There will be no cost to comply with the amendments to this regulation.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (3):
Compliance with these amendments will allow individuals to obtain the associated license or permit.
(5) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
There will be no cost to implement these regulatory amendments initially.
(b) On a continuing basis:
There will be no continuing costs to implement these amendments.
(6) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation:
The Fish and Game Fund
(7) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
There will be no increase in fees or funding necessary to implement these changes.
(8) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
This administrative regulation does not establish any fees or directly or indirectly increase any fees. Any associated fees are addressed in 301 KAR 5:022.
(9) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
Tiering is not applied as all individuals will need to look to 301 KAR 5:022 for the regulation which establishes the cost of the associated permits. New WCO requirements for taking deer apply equally to all WCOs.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
KRS 150.025(1)(h) authorizes the department to promulgate any other administrative regulations reasonably necessary to implement or carry out the purposes of KRS Chapter 150. KRS 150.105 authorizes the commissioner, with the approval of the commission, to authorize any person to destroy or bring under control any wild animal, fish, or wild birds, protected or unprotected, which are causing damage to persons, property, other animals, or spreading diseases. KRS 150.275 authorizes the department to issue permits to qualified persons to take and transport wildlife at any time for commercial nuisance wildlife control. This administrative regulation establishes the requirements for commercial nuisance wildlife control permits, and nuisance wildlife control operators. KRS 150.235 prohibits persons from performing acts authorized to be performed by a permit without first procuring the permit and the permit or license shall be kept on their person while conducting acts. KRS 150.170 prevents persons from doing any act or assisting a person with an act authorized by any kind of license or permit unless they hold the kind of permit that authorizes the act.
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
This amendment is not expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly but is promulgated pursuant to KRS 150.025 and 150.195.
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The promulgating agency is the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. No other state agencies are affected.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any additional expenditures for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any additional expenditures for the department.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any change in revenues for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any change in revenues for the department.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
These amendments will not result in any cost savings for the department.
For subsequent years:
These amendments will not result in any cost savings for the department.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
No local entities should be affected by these amendments.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
No other entities should be affected by these amendments.
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
N/A
For subsequent years:
N/A
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
This amendment will not have any significant fiscal impact.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
This amendment does not modify any fees or require affected entities to expend funds to comply with the amendments beyond those incidental to normal operations.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(13):
This amendment will not have a major economic impact.
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
This amendment does not increase any fees or otherwise create a financial burden to state or local government agencies or to regulated entities.