Scientific Collector's Permit

Individuals involved in research, survey work, collection or handling of wildlife species in South Dakota are required to possess a Scientific Collectors Permit. A Scientific Collectors Permit is required for both live and dead specimens. 

If collection is occurring for research purposes, applicants should submit a permit application and research proposal if available. This permit does not authorize the collection of any federal or state threatened or endangered species and it is the applicant's responsibility to obtain any other necessary permits. 

A Scientific Collector’s permit is not required for migratory bird banding if a researcher already has a Federal Bird Banding Permit.

A Scientific Collector’s permit is required for invertebrate collection occurring for research purposes, but is not needed if the collection is for personal use. For example, a person collecting common butterflies in their backyard or creating a personal collection of common insects does not need a Scientific Collector’s permit. A Scientific Collector’s Permit is required for rare invertebrate species, which are those that are state or federal listed as threatened or endangered species or those monitored by the South Dakota Natural Heritage program.

This permit is also required to collect wildlife or plant species from State Parks, Recreation Areas, and Game Production Areas. This is a separate permitting process.

Additional Form Details

1. The taking of any federal or state threatened or endangered species, will be allowed ONLY by specific authorization for each species. Consult the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for authorization to take a federally listed species.
    
2. Collecting that may be authorized under this application does not relieve the applicant from compliance with other federal/state laws or regulations.
    
3. The applicant is expected to contact the local Wildlife Conservation Officer prior to engaging in any collecting.
    
4. A report of collections must be submitted to the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Natural Heritage Program, 523 E. Capitol, Pierre, SD 57501 no later than January 31, following the year this permit is issued.
    
5. This application would be granted under the provisions of SDCL 41-6-32 and would expire on the 31st day of December for the year issued (unless otherwise stated).