Contact Information

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Wildlife Diversity Permits
4200 Smith School Road
Austin, TX 78744

WPoffice@tpwd.texas.gov

Commercial Nongame Permit Regulations:
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the white list?

The white list — the species in §65.331(d) — is the list of nongame species that it is lawful to collect and use for commercial purposes (buy, sell, barter, trade, etc.).

What is the black list?

The black list — the species in §65.331(e.) — is the list of nongame species that may be acquired from a nongame dealer permit holder or lawfully obtained from an out of state source for the purpose of import, export, sale, or resale.

Where can I collect species on the white list?

Species on the white list may be collected only on private land or water with the permission of the landowner.

Where can I collect species on the black list?

Species on the black list may not be collected from the wild and can only be obtained from a nongame dealer permit holder or lawful out of state source.

Where is it illegal to collect nongame wildlife?

Nongame wildlife may NOT be collected on public land, from public water, or on public roads and the rights-of-way of public roads.

Are there nongame species that the rules do not apply to?

Yes — nongame birds, nongame fish, insects, bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions, rabbits and bison. The possession and/or sale of ALL other nongame species is regulated by the rules. Please refer to section §65.331(d) and (e) for a complete list of species. NOTE: A separate regulation (31 TAC §65.82) makes it unlawful to knowingly take or possess diamondback terrapin.

Can I still sell nongame species that are not on the white list?

Bobcats, coyotes, mountain lions and rabbits may be taken and sold without a permit; however, a hunting license is required.

I make and sell decorative objects out of nongame wildlife. Do I still need a nongame permit?

Only if you collect or obtain live wildlife prior to creating a processed product for sale, in which case you will need to possess a nongame dealer permit. If you obtain items such as shells, skins, etc. from a nongame dealer, you do not need a permit if the items meet the definition of a processed product (wildlife or wildlife parts that have been treated to prevent decomposition or they are incapable of decomposition).