A Safe, Educational Guide for Homeowners
Why Wildlife Laws Matter in Tennessee
Tennessee is home to hundreds of native wildlife species that are protected under state and federal law. While animals occasionally cause damage or safety concerns around homes, improper handling, relocation, trapping, or possession can result in fines, penalties, or unintended harm to wildlife and people.
Understanding the basic legal framework helps homeowners:
- Avoid accidental violations
- Protect themselves and their property responsibly
- Follow humane and ethical wildlife practices
- Know when professional or agency help is required
When in doubt, always confirm with official sources before acting.
Who Regulates Wildlife in Tennessee?
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is the primary state agency responsible for:
- Managing wildlife populations
- Enforcing wildlife laws
- Issuing permits and licenses
- Overseeing nuisance wildlife programs
- Regulating rehabilitation and transport of wildlife
TWRA operates under Title 70 of the Tennessee Code and associated administrative rules.
Tennessee Wildlife Authority (this site) is an independent educational platform and is not affiliated with TWRA or any government agency.
General Wildlife Protection Principles
Most Native Wildlife Is Protected
In Tennessee, most native wildlife species are protected by law. Activities such as:
- Capturing
- Possessing
- Transporting
- Relocating
- Killing
- Keeping wildlife as pets
are typically regulated and may require permits, licenses, or professional authorization.
Even animals commonly considered “nuisance” species may still be protected depending on the situation, season, and method of control.
Avoid Assumptions
Homeowners should never assume that:
- Relocation is automatically legal
- Trapping is unrestricted
- Possession of injured wildlife is allowed
- Wildlife can be moved off property without authorization
When unsure, verify first.
Capturing, Transporting, and Releasing Wildlife
Tennessee administrative rules generally require a permit to capture, transport, or release wildlife. This regulation exists to prevent:
- Disease transmission
- Ecosystem disruption
- Illegal dumping of animals
- Improper handling or humane violations
In limited situations, property owners may be allowed to capture wildlife on their own land and release it back on the same property. However, relocating wildlife elsewhere — even nearby — often requires proper authorization.
Because these rules can be nuanced and species-specific, homeowners should always confirm requirements directly with TWRA before attempting capture or relocation.
Nuisance Wildlife & Animal Damage Control Operators
When wildlife is causing property damage or safety concerns, Tennessee allows qualified professionals to assist homeowners.
Animal Damage Control (ADC) Operators
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency permits trained individuals known as Animal Damage Control (ADC) operators to perform nuisance wildlife work for a fee under specific regulatory requirements.
ADC operators must:
- Hold current TWRA permits
- Follow humane handling standards
- Obtain landowner permission
- Maintain required records
Homeowners can find licensed nuisance wildlife control operators through the official
TWRA Animal Damage Control Operator Search
Important Notes
- TWRA does not guarantee the quality of services provided by operators.
- Hiring decisions remain the responsibility of the homeowner.
- Business disputes are typically not handled by TWRA.
Always verify permits before hiring any wildlife control provider.
Trapping, Devices, and Control Methods
Trapping devices and wildlife control methods are regulated in Tennessee. In general:
- Certain trap types may be restricted or prohibited.
- Authorization or permits may be required depending on the species and activity.
- Improper trapping can create liability for injury to pets, people, or protected wildlife.
Using traps without proper authorization can expose homeowners to enforcement action.
When professional trapping is needed, using a properly permitted ADC operator is often the safest option.
Wildlife Causing Property Damage
Tennessee law allows landowners limited authority to protect property from wildlife damage, but important restrictions apply — especially for protected or big game species such as deer, turkey, or bear.
In many situations, permits must be obtained before lethal action is taken. These rules exist to balance private property protection with conservation objectives.
Homeowners should always confirm with TWRA before attempting any lethal control or removal.
Federal Wildlife Protections Still Apply
Some wildlife laws are governed at the federal level and apply in Tennessee regardless of state rules.
Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)
Many birds, nests, feathers, and eggs are protected under federal law. Disturbing or possessing them without authorization may violate federal regulations even if state rules appear to allow certain actions.
Endangered Species Act (ESA)
Threatened or endangered species receive additional federal protections. Harassing, harming, or possessing these animals may carry serious penalties.
When birds or protected species are involved, additional caution is required.
Who to Call for Injured Wildlife, Orphaned Animals, & Roadkill
Never attempt to treat or keep wild animals yourself. Handling wildlife may be unsafe and regulated.
Injured or Orphaned Wildlife
Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator approved by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Rehabilitators are trained and permitted to care for injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife.
Official TWRA Wildlife Rehabilitator List
A rehabilitator can advise whether the animal truly needs help and how to safely transport it if necessary.
You may also use:
Animal Help Now (AHNow.org)
A national resource that connects people with local wildlife emergency assistance.
Roadkill, Sick, or Dead Wildlife
- Report sick or dead deer to TWRA using their official reporting tools.
- Report sick or dead birds through TWRA’s wildlife reporting resources.
- For animals on roadways, contact local animal control or the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) depending on road jurisdiction.
Avoid touching dead wildlife whenever possible.
Immediate Safety Concerns
If wildlife poses an immediate threat to people or pets:
- Call 911 or local emergency services.
- Local animal control or law enforcement may assist in urgent situations.
TWRA wildlife officers can also provide guidance for non-emergency wildlife concerns.
Best Practices for Staying Compliant
- ✔ Verify regulations directly with TWRA before acting
- ✔ Avoid relocating wildlife without written authorization
- ✔ Use licensed professionals when appropriate
- ✔ Respect breeding seasons and protected species
- ✔ Never keep wildlife as pets
- ✔ Keep pets and children away from injured animals
- ✔ Document communications and permits if applicable
When unsure — pause and confirm first.
Official Tennessee Wildlife Resources
You should always rely on official sources for current regulations:
- Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) – main agency site
- TWRA Animal Damage Control Operator Search
- TWRA Wildlife Rehabilitator Directory
- TWRA Wildlife Reporting Pages
- Tennessee Code Title 70 – Wildlife Resources
Important Disclaimer
This page is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, legal interpretation, or professional guidance. Wildlife laws and regulations change over time, and enforcement may vary by situation and jurisdiction.Always verify current rules directly with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) or a qualified legal professional before taking any action involving wildlife.