Importing deer, elk, and other cervids into Wisconsin requires an import permit number and a current certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) including documentation of tuberculosis and brucellosis testing, as well as participation in a state-recognized chronic wasting disease (CWD) program for at least five years.
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Import Permit Process
Permits are obtained by the veterinarian representing the person selling the cervids to a Wisconsin buyer.
Permit processing hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Complete the cervid import permit application online, or print it (available in right column) and return the completed form along with the completed CVI by email to
datcpanimalimports@wisconsin.gov or by fax to (608) 224-4871. If the application is incomplete, staff will identify what is missing so you can complete the application. When everything is in order, a state veterinarian will issue a permit number and provide it to you. Please write the permit number on all copies of the CVI prior to shipment of the animals.
It is essential to plan ahead and allow time for processing. It make take multiple days for review and follow-up, so please make sure all paperwork is complete before submitting. Permits are not issued after business hours or on weekends.
For cervid imports from Canada, please call the USDA Import/Export Center at (301) 851-3300 for requirements.
Importing to a Wisconsin Deer Farm or Ranch
The following is required:
Importing Directly to Slaughter
Farm-raised deer imported directly to slaughter must be tested for CWD under the testing standards established by the state of origin.
For cervids imported direct to slaughter, you can use either a state-issued CVI or the federal form VS 1-27 (obtained from the U.S. Department of Agriculture). Each form has different requirements.
If you are using a CVI, the following are required:
If you are using a VS 1-27, the following are required:
- Import permit number; complete the cervid import permit application online or fax/email the printed version (instructions above) along with the VS 1-27
- Two forms of
approved individual identification for each animal, at least one of which is official ID
- The seller's name, address, and premises code (if any)
- The destination facility's name and address
- Signatures from the issuing veterinarian (include the expiration date and time), owner or shipper, and a representative at the slaughter facility