Washington Falconry Requirements
Complete guide to becoming a licensed falconer in Washington
Information provided for reference only. Always verify with official sources before making decisions. Regulations may have changed since this information was last updated.
Overview
Washington regulates falconry through Chapter 220-420 WAC. Director may issue permits for taking/possessing raptors for falconry/captive propagation except federally endangered species. Three permit classes: Apprentice, General, Master. Permits valid maximum 2 years expiring December 31. Washington residency required. All raptor acquisitions, transfers, releases, deaths reported via U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Form 3-186A to both Department and USFWS. Facilities and equipment inspected before permit issuance. Master falconers may possess maximum 5 wild-taken raptors (including golden eagles) plus unlimited captive-bred (must train for hunting). Master may possess up to 3 wild-taken eagles (golden/white-tailed/Steller's) with documented large raptor experience and 2 reference letters. Peregrine falcon taking requires special Department permit with director-determined numbers.
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
Washington issues three resident permit classes valid maximum 2 years expiring December 31 per Chapter 220-420 WAC. Applicants must meet state residency requirements and complete Department application. Apprentice requires sponsor, may possess species specified in WAC 220-420-070. General requires sponsor attestation of 2 years apprentice practice with own raptors per WAC 220-420-060. Master requires attestation/evidence of 5 years general practice with own raptors or proof of previous master permit per WAC 220-420-050, may take raptors under 1 year anytime (American kestrel/great horned owl any age anytime), may possess maximum 5 wild-taken raptors (including golden eagles) plus unlimited captive-bred (must train for hunting), may take red-tailed hawk, kestrel, merlin, prairie falcon, peregrine falcon (with Department permit), gyrfalcon, sharp-shinned hawk, Cooper's hawk, goshawk, great horned owl, barred owl from wild, may possess any Falconiform/Strigiform except bald eagle, may possess up to 3 wild-taken eagles (golden/white-tailed/Steller's) with Department-documented large raptor experience and 2 reference letters assessing capability to care for/fly eagles. Permits carried during trapping, transporting, displaying, or falconry activities.
Exam Information
Washington requires examination passage before permit issuance per Chapter 220-420 WAC. 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
Washington requires facilities per WAC 220-420-280 before permit allowing raptor possession. Facilities must provide adequate protection, space, and environmental conditions for raptors. Department representative inspects facilities before permit issuance. Care requirements and guidelines in WAC 220-420-300. Facilities on property not owned by permittee require signed agreement allowing Department inspections per WAC 220-420-290. Transport, hunting, temporary housing facilities per WAC 220-420-315.
Equipment Requirements
Washington requires equipment per WAC 220-420-310. Required equipment must be maintained and appropriate for species possessed. All equipment suitable for proper raptor care, handling, and welfare per Chapter 220-420 standards. Raptors must be banded or microchip tagged per WAC 220-420-210. All raptor transactions reported via USFWS Form 3-186A per WAC 220-420-030.