Nevada requires state-issued rehabilitation permits to legally hold injured wildlife, and Las Vegas residents must transfer rescued animals to NDOW-licensed rehabbers within 48 hours rather than keeping them at home.
Possessing native wildlife in Las Vegas is regulated by the Nevada Department of Wildlife under NRS 503 and NAC 503. Only individuals holding a state wildlife-rehabilitator permit may legally hold injured songbirds, raptors, reptiles, or mammals beyond brief transport. Residents who find injured wildlife should contact NDOW or licensed rehabbers like Lake Mead Wildlife Rescue and arrange transfer within 48 hours. Federally protected species require additional U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permits. The city LVMC Title 6 wildlife-feeding ban discourages well-meaning residents from creating dependency. Strip-area finds fall under the same state framework regardless of jurisdiction.
NRS 503 misdemeanor for unlawful possession of wildlife, fines up to $1,000 per animal, federal charges for migratory bird species, and confiscation by NDOW wardens.
Las Vegas, NV
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See how Las Vegas's wildlife rescue permits rules stack up against other locations.
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