Wildlife removal in Tennessee
Nuisance wildlife in Tennessee is regulated by the TWRA. Paid operators must hold an ADC permit. Relocation of native wildlife is illegal without a specific transport permit. Captured furbearers must be released on-site or euthanized, and skunks must be euthanized.
Get connected with a provider in Tennessee
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 Tennessee law allows
- Paid operators must hold an Animal Damage Control (ADC) permit from the TWRA.
- Property owners can capture nuisance animals causing damage but must release them on-site or euthanize them.
- It is illegal to transport and relocate wildlife to other properties without a permit.
- Skunks can never be relocated and must be humanely euthanized on-site.
Rules paraphrased from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) — the primary source. Last reviewed 2026-07-16.
Relocation rules
Tennessee prohibits transporting live wildlife for release elsewhere without a permit. Trapped animals must be released on the same property or humanely euthanized. Skunks must be euthanized.
Bat rules
Bats are protected in Tennessee. Exclusion using one-way doors is the standard legal remedy and must be done outside of the summer maternity season.
City guides in Tennessee
Tennessee wildlife law FAQs
Can a skunk be relocated in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee law prohibits the relocation of skunks entirely due to rabies concerns. They must be humanely euthanized on-site by a permitted professional.
Do Tennessee wildlife operators need a special license?
Yes. Commercial operators must hold an Animal Damage Control (ADC) permit issued by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
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.