How to become a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO)

Connecticut law requires an individual to obtain a Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) license prior to engaging in the business of wildlife control or when providing wildlife control as a municipal employee (i.e. Animal Control Officer). The Connecticut DEP Wildlife Division issues commercial NWCO licenses for a two-year period at a cost of $200. A non-commercial (municipal) NWCO license is issued at no cost.

To obtain this license, an individual must first attend an approved Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator's training course, and then pass the NWCO licensing exam. NWCO training is comprehensive and includes instruction in NWCO laws, regulations and policies, humane capture, handling and euthanasia, site evaluation, exclusion, non-lethal and lethal control methods, and wildlife biology and diseases of importance.

For further information on the next available Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator training class, contact the DEP Wildlife Division by phone at (860) 424-3011 or use the form below to request application information be mailed to you.