Aquaculture

The CDFW Aquaculture Program oversees California’s diverse aquaculture industry. Through policies and regulations, CDFW and the Fish and Game Commission balance the protection of natural resources and the development of sustainable commercial aquaculture.

Aquaculture Program Report to the Legislature (2022) (PDF)

Aquaculture Registration Process

References and Permit Applications

Leases

Regulations, Guidelines and Permit Applications

Regulations Governing Marine Aquaculture (PDF)
Aquaculture in Inland Waters of California (Leaflet No. 35 - PDF)
Collection of Wild Broodstock for Use in Aquaculture (Leaflet No. 40 - PDF)
- Application for Wild Broodstock Permit (PDF Form)
Draft Guidelines to Reduce the Risk of Quagga/Zebra Mussels in California Aquaculture (low-resolution PDF)
Importation of Live Aquatic Plants, Invertebrates, Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles (Leaflet No. 36 - PDF)
- Application for Standard or Long-term Importation Permit (PDF Form)
Regulations Governing Take, Sale or Transport of Crayfish For Commercial Purposes (Leaflet No. 31 - PDF)
Farm Fish Pond Management in California (Leaflet No. 23 - PDF)
Regulations Governing Capture, Possession, Transportation, and Sale of Live Freshwater Fish for Bait (Leaflet No. 7 - PDF)
Regulations Governing Private Stocking of Aquatic Plants and Animals (Non-Commercial) (Leaflet No. 6 - PDF)
- Application for Private Stocking Permit (PDF Form)

Permit Guide to Aquaculture in CA(opens in new tab)
(a reference tool for all aquaculture in CA)
Aquaculture Information Report (AIR) (PDF)(opens in new tab)
(Status of Commercial Marine Aquaculture in CA, May 2020)
Shellfish Health Laboratory

State Aquaculture Coordinator
(916) 376-1650
Aquaculturecoord@wildlife.ca.gov

Marine-specific inquiries:
MarineAquaculture@wildlife.ca.gov

Meetings

Marine Resources Meeting
Date: March 14 (& 16 for MPA)
Time: 8:30 A.M.
Zoom Webinar
Agenda Agenda (PDF)(opens in new tab)
Meeting Documents (PDF)(opens in new tab)
How to Join the meeting (PDF)(opens in new tab))

OR in person at:

March 14, 2023
California State University Monterey Bay - University Center Auditorium
4314 6th Avenue
Seaside, CA 93955

(NOTE: March 16 is MPA-related only, in different location: see agenda for details.)

Aquaculturists

List of Aquaculturists (PDF)(opens in new tab) with locations and products sold (limited to those who elected to be listed)

Aquaculture Matters

Explore the exciting world of California aquaculture through industry profiles, community stories, upcoming events, and stunning photos at Aquaculture Matters(opens in new tab).

About CDFW

Opportunities

Get in Touch

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