Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator Permit

All Nuisance Wildlife Control Operators (NWCO) must have a valid NWCO permit issued by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) in their possession while engaged in nuisance wildlife control activities. NWCO permits are issued only to individuals and each individual engaged in NWCO activities must possess a NWCO permit issued in his/her name. This rule does not provide for or authorize any NWCO to name a subpermittee.

Permit fee:

$50.00

For more information on becoming a NWCO or renewing a NWCO license contact: LDWF Wildlife Permits office at wildlifepermits@wlf.la.gov or 225-763-5499

Permit Requirements:

  • Possess a valid Louisiana trapping license and valid Louisiana basic hunting license.
  • Possess a valid Louisiana Basic fishing license for controlling non-protected reptile and/or amphibian species.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must achieve a minimum score of 80 percent on the LDWF NWCO examination consisting of questions relating to wildlife biology and behavior, nuisance animal control methods and procedures, and nuisance wildlife control laws, rules and regulations.

Please remember that ALL documentation is required to submit an application. The system will automatically delete incomplete applications.

Important Notes:

  • Any person whose hunting or trapping license privileges have been revoked and is prohibited from hunting and trapping in Louisiana shall not be allowed to possess or operate under the authority of a NWCO permit.
  • Subpermittees are not allowed.
  • NWCO permit holders must submit annual reports online in order to be eligible for renewal.
  • Permits must be renewed annually, felony background checks are required for renewal.
  • Permit renewals require annual reporting. You will be required to provide 1) species, 2) date of control, 3) number of animals, 4) Parish, and 5) disposition of the animal.
  • NWCO permits are valid from January 1 – December 31, regardless of the initial issue date.

 Before You Apply:

The following information is required at the time of application. The system will not allow incomplete applications to be submitted.

  • You must possess a valid Louisiana Basic Hunting License and Trapping License. If controlling non-protected reptile and/or amphibian species, you must also possess a valid Louisiana Basic Fishing License.

For more information, contact the LDWF Wildlife Permits Office at wildlifepermits@wlf.la.gov.

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