Farmers experiencing deer damage may apply for a Deer Depredation Permit which allows for the take of deer outside of the normal hunting season. Eligible property includes farmland assessed cultivated fields and tree farms. Cultivated fields includes pasture lands which have been seeded within the 12 months prior, and land on which crops are grown. Prior to applying for a permit farmers can explore the use of a noise cannon.

Applications should be submitted at least two weeks before needed to ensure it is processed and a permit issued in time. The Division may require a site inspection to confirm damage. Every permit request will require an onsite safety inspection conducted by a Division Conservation Police Officer.

Incomplete applications will not be processed. Please be sure that:

1. Applications are signed by agents
2. All agents have valid hunting license and NJ Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (NJFID)
3. No fields are left blank (except mortality report)

Failure to submit a mortality report will disqualify applicants from receiving a depredation permit the following year.

Depredation Rules and Regulations (pdf, 115kb)

Application Form (pdf, 325kb)
Open application form, complete online and print, or print and complete by hand. Mail completed form to appropriate DFW regional office as found on page 2 of application.

Deer Management and the Farmer Brochure (pdf, 15mb)