North Dakota Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed falconer in North Dakota
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
Overview
North Dakota regulates falconry through Chapter 30-02-02. Valid ND falconry license required for residents to take, possess, sell, barter, transport raptors or practice falconry. Nonresidents need valid home state/country license and must register on gf.nd.gov before participating. Three license classes: Apprentice, General (3+ years experience), and Master. Applicants must pass examination and have facilities/equipment approved. Licenses valid 3 years. Sponsors must be resident master or resident general with 3+ years general experience, max 2 apprentices. Taking raptors restricted by season, species, and class. Nonindigenous raptors and hybrids require special permits. Noncriminal offense violations carry $200 fee.
Apprentice
Requirements for beginning falconers. Typically includes 2 years of apprenticeship, sponsorship by a general or master falconer, and basic housing standards.
General
Requirements for intermediate falconers. Requires at least 2 years as an apprentice and allows for a wider selection of species and multiple birds.
Master
Requirements for advanced falconers. Requires at least 5 years of experience as a general falconer and allows the maximum number of birds and species.
License Information
North Dakota issues three resident license classes valid 3 years. Resident license required to take, possess, sell, barter, transport raptors or practice falconry. Nonresidents must have valid home state/country license to possess/transfer raptors or practice falconry in ND, comply with specific regulations, and register on gf.nd.gov or through Department office before participating. Nonresident falconers relocating to ND with raptor possession must obtain state license within 120 days. Licensees moving to new state/tribe/territory must inform both former and new licensing authority within 30 days of address change. When pursuing/taking/attempting to take game birds/animals, licensee must possess required hunting license and follow season regulations. Violations of registration, relocation, or address change requirements are noncriminal offenses with $200 fee. Sponsors must be resident master or resident general with 3+ years general experience, max 2 apprentices at one time.
Exam Information
North Dakota requires examination passage before license issuance. Examination ensures applicants possess adequate knowledge of falconry practices, raptor biology, care and handling, and applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Testing administered by Department to verify competency before facilities and equipment approval.
Housing Requirements
North Dakota requires facilities and equipment to be inspected and approved by Department before license issuance per Section 30-02-02-07. Facilities must meet state standards for raptor housing and care. All housing must provide adequate protection, space, and environmental conditions for raptors possessed. Facilities must comply with ND regulations for proper raptor welfare.
Equipment Requirements
North Dakota requires equipment to meet Department standards per Section 30-02-02-07 before license issuance. Equipment must be inspected and approved as appropriate for species possessed. Raptors must be marked according to Section 30-02-02-09 regulations. All equipment must be suitable for proper raptor care, handling, and welfare.