The cultivation of finfish in New York State is regulated by Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Processing finfish for consumption purposes (i.e., gutting, fileting, and packaging) is regulated by the Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM). You can learn more about the processing needs by viewing the NY AGM seafood page.

A fish hatchery permit issued by NY DEC allows for the breeding and raising of large- and small-mouth bass, brook, brown, and rainbow trout. It also allows the sale of these except for selling small-mouth bass for human consumption purposes. Other species such as salmon, tilapia, and even shrimp currently do not require a hatchery permit; however, a water discharge permit may be required depending on the volume of discharge. See the DEC Fish Hatchery permit page to learn more and how to contact their office to apply for them.

Before fish can be sold (other than for human consumption) to any location in New York (and most other states), the fish will need to be certified that they are disease free. This is accomplished by having a sample of the fish collected and sent to a certified disease lab for testing. View the DEC website about the fish health certification requirements to learn more.

Permit to Import & Possess Grass Carp – this permit is required if you want to sell or have grass carp in your pond.

Private Pond Stocking – this permit is required if you would like to stock your pond with fish.

Freshwater Bait Fish Dealer License – this permit is required for you to sell and/or import baitfish for pond stocking purposes.

Aquaculture Regulation in the Great Lakes – this is a summary of regulations for aquaculture from each state within the Great Lakes region. This report was compiled by the National Sea Grant Law Center. It does not include regulations associated with processing aquaculture species.