Squirrel Friends Wildlife Rescue

Wildlife Captivity License for Holding is REQUIRED in NC to keep any non-releasable wild animal!!!

Step 1: Understand the Purpose of a Holding License

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1403)

A Holding License allows individuals to possess native wild animals or birds for:

  • Education
  • Exhibition
  • Scientific purposes

Important: A holding license does not permit:

  • Keeping animals as pets.
  • Breeding (unless explicitly approved by the Commission).
  • Dog training or hunting.
  • Holding animals obtained unlawfully.

Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1401​)

To qualify, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have no criminal convictions under G.S. 14, Article 47 or the federal Animal Welfare Act within the last 10 years.
  • You must have a current Wildlife Rehabilitation License.
    • In some cases, if you are a licensed rehabilitator with a non-releasable animal in your care, the NCWRC will allow for a veterinarian to submit a written recommendation, and the Captivity License for Rehabilitation may be transferred to a Captivity License for Holding.
    • 15A NCAC 10H .1404, Section i:

Step 3: Prepare Your Facility

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1404)

Your enclosure must meet specific standards to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals:

  • Sanitation: Provide clean drinking water, proper waste management, and unspoiled food.
  • Cage Dimensions: Refer to 15A NCAC 10H .1404(a)(3) for species-specific requirements.

Key Points for Multiple Animals

  • For two animals: Multiply the single animal’s square footage by 1.5.
  • For each additional animal: Apply the same 1.5 multiplier successively.

Additional Enclosure Requirements

  • Materials: Must be escape-proof and securely anchored.
  • Substrate: Natural enclosures must have a dig barrier to prevent escape.
  • Shelter: Provide at least one shelter, nest box, or den that accommodates all animals simultaneously.
  • Elevated Areas: Enclosures must include at least one elevated space large enough for all animals inside.
  • Containment: Ensure enclosures are secure, ventilated, and escape-proof. Chains or tethers are not allowed for confinement.
  • Rabies Species: Special requirements for rabies-prone species include double barriers and separate enclosures.
    (Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1403)

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1406)

You’ll need the following:

  1. A completed Captivity License for Holding Form, available at NC Wildlife Commission’s website.
  2. Proof of a valid federal permit for migratory birds, if applicable.
  3. A USDA license if holding animals for education or exhibition.
  4. Proof of rabies vaccination for individuals working with rabies species.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1403)

Submit the application form along with supporting documents and fees (as specified in G.S. 113-272.5 and G.S. 113-270.1B) to the Wildlife Resources Commission. Ensure your submission includes:

  • Facility address and organizational affiliation (if applicable).
  • Species information, including the quantity and source of the animals.
  • A clear explanation of the purpose for holding the animals.

Step 6: Pass the Facility Inspection

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1403)

Before your license is issued, the Wildlife Resources Commission will inspect your facility to verify compliance with standards.

Step 7: Maintain Compliance

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1403)

  • Keep detailed records of education and exhibition activities on approved forms. Retain records for 12 months after the license expires.
  • Notify the Commission of any changes to the enclosure within 10 business days.
  • Ensure all transfers of animals are properly documented. A record of the transferor and transferee details must be kept for three years.

Step 8: Renew Your License Annually

(Reference: 15A NCAC 10H .1401)

Referenced Documents:

Rules per the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, as listed on their website below.

More information online: