1. (1) The department shall require hatcheries to obtain a hatchery license annually.
2. (2) The department may exempt hatcheries processing less than 1,000 hatching eggs, gamebirds, or poultry per year from licensure.

3. (3) An applicant shall apply for a hatchery license:

   1. (a) on a department form; and
   2. (b) pay a fee based on the annual fee schedule.
4. (4) A hatchery licensee shall keep records or bill of sale of purchases, sources, and sales of hatching eggs, poultry, and gamebirds each calendar year and maintain the records for a minimum of three years.

5. (5) For sales of live gamebirds or gamebird eggs the records or bill of sale shall include:

   1. (a) the hatchery license number;
   2. (b) the date of transaction;
   3. (c) the number and types of eggs or gamebirds purchased; and

   4. (d) the buyer's information, including:

      1. (i) name and address;
      2. (ii) the physical location of birds, if different;
      3. (iii) telephone number; and

      4. (iv) documentation evidencing the buyer's legal authorization to possess or purchase gamebirds, which shall include:

         1. (A) the Commercial Gamebird Facility License number; or
         2. (B) the appropriate documentation required by DWR for legal possession or purchase of gamebirds per Rule R657-4.

6. (6) To prevent the spread of disease and minimize the risk of disease transmission, a hatchery licensee shall:

   1. (a) keep the area where the gamebirds or poultry are kept clean and appropriate for the type and age of the gamebirds or poultry;
   2. (b) ensure bird care and handling conform to recognized husbandry practices;
   3. (c) provide individuals purchasing live gamebirds or poultry written information on safe handling to prevent human illness; and
   4. (d) report any suspected contagious or infectious disease in their hatchery to the department immediately.

KEY: disease control, NPIP, hatchery, poultry, gamebirds, license

Date of Last Change: June 24, 2025

Notice of Continuation: December 28, 2021

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 4-31-119