Incidental take permitsmay be sought when a non-federal entity believes their otherwise lawful activities may result in take of endangered or threatened animal species. A habitat conservation plan (HCP) must accompany an application for an incidental take permit. The habitat conservation plan associated with the permit ensures that the effects of the authorized incidental take are adequately minimized and mitigated.
Once the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has determined that the prospective applicant's HCP meets the ESA section 10(a)(1)(B) incidental take permit issuance criteria, we will unlock the application form so you may complete and submit it to the Service for processing. Before you begin drafting the HCP, we strongly recommend seeking assistance from the local field office to ensure the HCP meets the respective policy and incidental take permit issuance criteria.
Audience
Get Started
Permit applications and instructions for endangered and threatened species native to the United States can be found on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's new electronic permitting system. It is now possible to submit permit applications online, including requests for amendments and renewals, as well as pay the processing fee.
