Wildlife rehabilitators operating in Pittsburgh must hold a Pennsylvania Game Commission permit under 34 Pa.C.S. §2901, with additional federal permits for migratory birds and Title 9 zoning compliance for rehabilitation facilities.
Caring for injured native wildlife in Pittsburgh requires a state Wildlife Rehabilitation Permit issued by the Pennsylvania Game Commission under 34 Pa.C.S. §2901 and 58 Pa. Code Ch. 147. Migratory birds additionally require a federal permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Rehabilitation facilities in Pittsburgh must also comply with Title 9 zoning, typically requiring an institutional or special-exception use approval, and the Animal Rescue League Wildlife Center is a primary intake hub. Picking up wildlife without a permit is itself a Game Code violation.
Unpermitted possession of wildlife is a summary offense under the Game and Wildlife Code with fines per animal and mandatory transfer to a licensed rehabilitator or release.
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh participates in Lights Out programs to reduce migratory bird collisions, and federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act protections under 16 U.S.C. §703 ap...
Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh follows Pennsylvania Game Commission coyote policy under 34 Pa.C.S. with no city bounty or trapping program, focusing on hazing, secured trash, an...
See how Pittsburgh's wildlife rescue permits rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.