R657-40-1. Purpose and Authority

(1) Under Sections 23-13-4, 23-14-18, and 23-20-3, this rule provides the standards and procedures for possessing protected wildlife in captivity for rehabilitation purposes. In accordance with the provisions of this rule, the Wildlife Board encourages responsible wildlife rehabilitation by trained and educated individuals as a public service and for the benefit of Utah's wildlife resources.

(2)(a) This rule does not govern the rehabilitation of species of wildlife classified as non-protected wildlife in Subsection 23-13-2(35)(b), including coyote, field mouse, gopher, ground squirrel, jack rabbit, muskrat, and raccoon.

(b) Holding raccoons and coyotes in captivity is governed by the Department of Agriculture under Section 4-23-11 and Rule R58-14. Authorization from the Department of Agriculture is required for their live possession.