Business Licenses and Permits:: Published by Corporation Service Company » Blog Archive

Sometimes things are obvious and other times quite surprising. Logic tells most people that a business would need a license to sell alcohol. It is also likely these same people would be surprised to learn that you need a license to practice taxidermy as well.

The art of mounting dead animals for display (sport-hunted trophies) doesn’t seem like it would call for a business license, but that’s not the case. Wildlife services license taxidermists in order to keep a watchful eye on protected or endangered animals and to make sure illegal trade, importing and exporting is not occurring either.

Although there are generally licensing requirements, it can vary state by state. Ohio for example does not have any state taxidermy licenses. However, the Ohio DNR requires taxidermists to obtain a federal migratory bird permit. There are also a variety of federal permits required for importing and exporting different sport-hunted trophies.

If you’re going into business as a taxidermist, it is best to contact your local DNR or regional U.S. Fish and Wildlife office for permitting and licensing questions.

Ryan Julson, Business License Research Analyst, Corporation Service Company