New Jersey Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed falconer in New Jersey
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
Overview
New Jersey regulates falconry through N.J.A.C. 7:25-5.16, establishing rules for taking, possessing, training, and using raptors for falconry. Three permit classes are issued: Apprentice (age 14+, one raptor), General (age 18+, up to two raptors with option for third), and Master (5 years at General level, up to three raptors with option for up to five). Permits are valid until June 30 of the third calendar year after issue. All applicants must pass an 80% examination. Facilities and equipment must be inspected and certified before permit issuance. The state follows federal falconry regulations.
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
New Jersey issues three classes of permits valid until June 30 of the third calendar year after issue. Apprentice Class requires age 14+, a General or Master sponsor, and allows possession of one red-tailed hawk (no more than one replacement per year). General Class requires age 18+, two years as apprentice with two seasons of field flying experience verified by sponsor, and allows up to two raptors (with option to apply for a third upon demonstrating adequate time, equipment, and facilities). Master Class requires five years at General level with raptor possession for at least 36 months, and allows up to three raptors (with option to apply for up to five total). Sponsors may refuse apprentices and must report refusals to Division within 10 days if requested.
Exam Information
All persons desiring a falconry permit must answer correctly at least 80 percent of questions on a supervised examination provided or approved by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Examinations cover basic biology, care and handling of raptors, literature, regulations, and other appropriate subject matter. The examination ensures applicants possess adequate knowledge before facilities and equipment are inspected and permits are issued.
Housing Requirements
Facilities must be inspected and certified by a Division representative before permit issuance. Indoor facilities (mews) must allow easy access, provide adequate space for birds to fully extend wings (separated by partitions if multiple birds), have at least one window with vertical bars spaced narrower than bird body width, secure easily-closed door, well-drained flooring, and adequate perches. Outdoor facilities (weathering areas) must be fenced and covered with netting/wire or roofed to protect from predators and disturbance, large enough that birds cannot strike fence when flying from perch, with protection from sun/wind/weather and adequate perches. All facilities must be maintained at or above standards at all times.
Equipment Requirements
Required equipment before permit issuance includes: Aylmeri jesses or similar pliable leather/synthetic material for free flight (traditional one-piece jesses for tethered raptors), flexible weather-resistant leash and strong swivel, proper glove with snap and falconer's bag with food storage, bath container 2-6 inches deep for each raptor, weathering area perch for each raptor, reliable weighing scale, and hoods for transport. Veterinary care consultation must be arranged with name and phone number provided on application.