Wildlife removal in Missouri
Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) regulates nuisance wildlife under the Wildlife Code of Missouri. Landowners can trap damage-causing wildlife without a permit, but commercial operators must have an active NWCO agreement. Relocation is discouraged due to disease risks.
Get connected with a provider in Missouri
Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.
What Missouri law allows
- Landowners do not need a permit to trap most nuisance wildlife causing damage on their property.
- Commercial operators must sign an active NWCO agreement with the MDC.
- MDC strongly discourages the relocation of trapped wildlife due to low survival rates and disease spread.
- Local municipal ordinances often restrict trapping methods and must be verified.
Rules paraphrased from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) — the primary source. Last reviewed 2026-07-16.
Relocation rules
Missouri conservation guidelines strongly advise against relocation. Trapped nuisance furbearers should be released on-site or humanely euthanized in accordance with local regulations.
Bat rules
Bat species are highly protected in Missouri. Exclusion is the only lawful control method and must be timed to avoid the summer maternity window.
City guides in Missouri
Missouri wildlife law FAQs
Can I relocate a trapped squirrel or raccoon in Missouri?
While landowners can trap nuisance animals, MDC does not recommend relocation due to the high risk of spreading diseases like rabies and distemper. On-site release or humane dispatch is recommended.
Do Missouri wildlife operators need to be licensed?
Commercial operators do not have a traditional state license but must have an active Nuisance Wildlife Control Operator (NWCO) agreement on file with the MDC.
Talk to someone about your wildlife problem
Call (844) 578-3091Call hours: Mon–Sun, 8 AM–6 PM. Coverage varies by location.
Disclaimer: EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service providers. All contractors/providers are independent and EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on EmergencyAnimalRemoval.com.