Federal and State Regulations
Permit Information
Various federal, state, and local permits may be required to collect, possess, and maintain zebra mussels within various jurisdictions. Prior to beginning a monitoring or research program, all necessary permits should be obtained to work with, collect, or transport mussels from all relevant agencies. It is recommended that individuals contact relevant local agencies for the most recent information.
Federal Regulations
- The Nonindigenous Aquatic Nuisance Prevention and Control Act of 1990 amended the Lacy Act to add the zebra mussel to the list of injurious fish, molluscs, and crustaceans. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has also amended its regulations to include the zebra mussel.
- Effective December 9, 1991, the importation into the United States or transportation between the continental United States, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or any territory or possession of the United States by any means whatsoever of live zebra mussels, veligers, or viable eggs thereof is prohibited except by permit for zoological, educational, medical, or scientific purposes. In addition, no live zebra mussel or other species of the genus Dreissena, viable eggs, or progeny thereof acquired under permit may be sold, donated, traded, loaned, or transferred to any other person unless such person has a permit issued by the director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Permits take approximately 60 days to process after receipt of the application form, which is available from:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Permit Branch, Office of Management Authority
Mailstop 430, ARLSQ
1849 C St. NW
Washington, D.C. 20240
For a listing of the regulations or permit requirements of a state, please contact one of the following relevant information sources:
Department of Environmental Conservation
Department of Natural Resources
Department of Fish and Wildlife
Slowing the Spread of the Zebra Mussel Contents
Protocol for Responsible Monitoring Procedures