Knowledge Base

Wildlife may only be removed or euthanized if a permit has been issued. An animal removal permit is only issued if the Department of Natural Resources determines that the animal is causing substantial property damage or if there is a public health or safety issue. For example, structural damage to a home caused by raccoons chewing through the roof or property damage from flooding caused by beavers would likely warrant the issuance of a permit. Permits are not likely to be issued to deal with inconveniences such as squirrels raiding feeders, woodpeckers drumming trees, or rabbits foraging in flowerbeds unless substantial damage is being caused. While these situations are understandably frustrating for the homeowner, there are non-lethal methods that can be used to remedy these problems. Check out the How to Prevent Problems with Urban Wildlife section to learn how to prevent problems with wildlife.