Falconry remains legal in Massachusetts, but the 2026 regulatory overhaul introduces stricter licensing thresholds, tighter species restrictions, and mandatory conservation training. If you meet the new residency, apprenticeship, and equipment standards, you can obtain a State Falconry Permit and legally practice the ancient art within the Commonwealth’s borders.
Revised 2026 Falconry Regulations
The Massachusetts Division of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) issued the 2026 Falconry Rulebook to modernize the sport while protecting native wildlife. Key changes include:
- Age and residency – Applicants must be 21 years old and have lived in Massachusetts for at least 12 months.
- Apprenticeship length – The required apprenticeship period is extended from 2 to 3 years, with a minimum of 200 h of documented flight time under a licensed falconer.
- Species limits – Only eight raptor species are now permitted, excluding the peregrine falcon for breeding purposes.
- Equipment standards – All hawking gear must meet ANSI‑A14 specifications; custom‑made gear requires DCR certification.
- Conservation fee – A $150 annual conservation surcharge funds raptor rehabilitation programs.
These updates aim to align Massachusetts with the North American Falconry Association’s best‑practice standards and to address concerns from wildlife biologists about habitat disturbance.
Compliance Requirements
To remain compliant, falconers must:
- Submit a completed Falconry Permit Application with proof of Massachusetts residency.
- Provide apprenticeship verification, including flight logs signed by a certified mentor.
- Pass a written exam covering raptor biology, federal wildlife statutes, and DCR safety protocols.
- Undergo a background check; felonies involving wildlife are disqualifying.
- Renew the permit annually, submitting a report of raptor health, hunting locations, and the conservation fee receipt.
Failure to adhere to these provisions can result in a revocation of the permit and potential civil penalties under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 131A.
Frequently Asked Questions
What species can I legally possess under the 2026 rules?
The allowed species are red‑tailed hawk, Harris’s hawk, Cooper’s hawk, sharp‑shinned hawk, broad‑winged hawk, goshawk, American kestrel, and the barred owl (as a non‑predatory exception). The peregrine falcon may be used for hunting only if the falconer holds a special scientific permit.
How long does the apprenticeship period last?
The apprenticeship now requires three full years of documented training, with at least 200 hours of supervised flight. Apprentices must log each flight, including date, location, and prey captured, and have the logs verified by a licensed falconer.
Is a separate hunting permit needed for each raptor?
No. A single State Falconry Permit covers all permitted raptor species owned by the falconer, provided each bird is individually registered with the DCR and meets the health certification standards.
Can non‑residents practice falconry in Massachusetts?
Non‑residents may obtain a temporary “visitor” permit, but only if they hold a valid falconry license from another state and meet the DCR’s residency verification for the duration of their stay (minimum 30 days).
What are the penalties for violating the new regulations?
Violations can lead to a fine of up to $5,000 per offense, seizure of the raptor, and a possible six‑month suspension or permanent revocation of the falconry license. Repeated offenses may also trigger criminal charges under state wildlife protection statutes.