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Mississippi Statewide Rule

Mississippi Rules for Bringing Chickens and Livestock Into the State

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Mississippi (2026)

Key Facts

Governing rule
Ch. 12, Rule 103 (MBAH regs)
Enforcing agency
Mississippi Board of Animal Health
Applies to
Livestock and poultry entering state
Penalty
Misdemeanor (69-15-9, -111, -331)
Added mandate
USDA Animal Disease Traceability compliance
Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

Mississippi's Board of Animal Health forbids any carrier from moving livestock or poultry into or through the state unless the shipment meets the Board's entry and disease-traceability regulations (Miss. Admin. Code Chapter 12, Rule 103). Violators face misdemeanor prosecution.

Owners and operators of private and common carriers, trucks and other conveyances are forbidden to move any livestock or poultry into, or through this state except in compliance with provisions set forth in these regulations.

Full Breakdown

Rule 103 of Chapter 12, adopted by the Mississippi Board of Animal Health under Miss. Code Ann. Section 69-15-3, bars owners and operators of private and common carriers, trucks, and other conveyances from moving any livestock or poultry into or through Mississippi except in compliance with the Board's regulations. All livestock entering the state must also satisfy USDA's Animal Disease Traceability Rule, and every railway car, truck, and conveyance used to haul livestock and poultry must be kept in sanitary condition. The Board enforces these entry requirements statewide.

Violations & Penalties

A carrier that moves chickens or livestock into or through Mississippi out of compliance is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable under Miss. Code Ann. Sections 69-15-9, 69-15-111, and 69-15-331.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I haul chickens into Mississippi without meeting any requirements?
No. Rule 103 forbids moving poultry or livestock into or through the state unless the shipment complies with Board of Animal Health entry rules, including USDA disease-traceability requirements.
Who enforces livestock and poultry entry rules in Mississippi?
The Mississippi Board of Animal Health, created under Miss. Code Ann. Section 69-15-9 with plenary power to control and eradicate contagious animal diseases statewide.
What is the penalty for violating the carrier rule?
A misdemeanor, punishable as provided in Miss. Code Ann. Sections 69-15-9, 69-15-111, and 69-15-331.

Sources

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