Wildlife Rehabilitation Laws and Regulations

There are federal, state and local laws that apply to wildlife in California. Proposed laws go through a bill process, and must be sponsored and passed, before being signed into law. Regulations are adopted to help implement laws. Title 14 California Code of Regulations (CCR) are set by the Fish and Game Commission (FGC) and CDFW enforces the regulations set by the FGC. 

The temporary possession of wildlife for the purpose of rehabilitation and release to the wild is allowed under a Native Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit issued by CDFW pursuant to Title 14 CCR §679. A Restricted Species Permit (CCR §671) is required for any person who imports, exports, transports, or possesses a restricted species in California such as an exotic animal (e.g., ferret, monkey) or non-releasable native wildlife.

The multi-year, stakeholder driven rulemaking process to update CCR §679 Possession of Wildlife and Wildlife Rehabilitation has concluded. New regulations went into effect August 13, 2025. The new regulations establish a broad framework to better support wildlife rehabilitators and protect the health and welfare of rehabilitation animals.

• DFW 479. Native Wildlife Rehabilitation 679 Regulations Manual (PDF)
• § 679. Possession of Wildlife and Wildlife Rehabilitation [Repealed January 1, 2026]
• § 679.1. Definitions.
• § 679.2. Transportation and Confinement of Live Wildlife.
• § 679.3. Permits for Wildlife Rehabilitation.
• § 679.4. Facility and Enclosure Standards for Rehabilitation Animals.
• § 679.5. Humane Care Standards.
• § 679.6. Release of Rehabilitation Animals to the Wild.
• § 679.7. Inspection of Wildlife Rehabilitation Facilities.
• § 679.8. Seizure of Animals; Transfer, Euthanasia, or Release of Seized Animals.
• § 679.9. Revocation; Proof of Service; Request for Reconsideration; Appeal of Revocation.
• § 703 (c)(2). Fees, Native Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit.
• § 671. Importation, Transportation and Possession of Live Restricted Animals.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Forms

A permittee, their designee, or sub-permittee shall submit required records to CDFW in writing via email at RehabWildlife@wildlife.ca.gov

NOTE: Application forms and certain other documents are not provided herein, and only available by request in writing via email.