Utah Falconry Program
Information regarding falconry and falconry regulations in Utah
Review this page for state and federal rules governing falconry in Utah, as well as instructions for applying to be a falconer and requirements for current falconers.
- Utah Administrative Rule R657-20: Falconry
- Federal falconry standards and falconry permitting (50 CFR 21.82)
You must use the Federal 3-186a database to document the capture, transfer, banding or rebanding of falconry birds. You must also send copies of your Federal 3-186a forms to DWR at
- Seventeen (17) falconry take permits are available in 2026, including sixteen (16) for Utah residents and one (1) for a nonresident.
- No other take limits on sensitive raptor species are posted.
- The 2026 falconry take application period for peregrine falcons is Feb. 1 (8 a.m.) – March 31, 2026 (11:59).
This application is governed by Administrative rule R657-20. To ensure compliance and maintain lawful possession of raptors under Utah Code § 23A-5-302, all applicants must adhere to the following general and class-specific requirements. Please contact the falconry team at
General inspection requirements (all applicants)
An approved facility inspection must be on file prior to the issuance of any COR, as specified in Administrative rule R657-20. By applying, the applicant agrees to reasonable inspections of raptors, facilities, equipment and records. An inspection is explicitly required for:
- New applications
- Out-of-state transfers
- Class upgrades
- Changes in facility or address
- Lapsed CORs
- Renewals
- Go to Falconry COR Application Form (all classes)
Applicants applying specifically for an Apprentice Class Falconer COR must:
- Be at least 12 years of age.
- Pass the Utah falconry exam.
- Have a qualified sponsor who holds a General Class or Master Class Falconer COR.
Preparing to apply as an Apprentice Class Falconer:
Applicants seeking to upgrade their class level must contact the Salt Lake Office at least 30 days prior to applying and obtain official authorization from the Falconry Program Coordinator (
Individuals transferring their falconry license from another state must:
- Meet Utah residency requirements prior to applying.
- Provide documentation of a valid falconry license from their previous state indicating their class level.
- Provide a valid federal falconry permit, if applicable.
- Go to Falconry COR Application Form (all classes)
Renewal applications must be submitted on or before the expiration date listed on the current COR.
- 30-day lapse: A COR is considered lapsed if a renewal is not submitted within 30 days after expiration. A falconer with a lapsed COR may apply for reinstatement.
- 5-year lapse: If an applicant has not held a COR (or it has been lapsed) for five consecutive years or longer, they are required to successfully complete a re-examination and a new facility inspection prior to approval.
Falconry forms and reporting
Important dates
- Visit our Wildlife calendar for application dates, deadlines and season dates.
Other information
- Falconry study guide (598 KB)
- Procedures for becoming an apprentice falconer (25 KB)
- Guidelines for raptor housing and equipment
- Utah Falconers Association
Questions about Utah's Falconry Program? Contact us at