Commercial Nuisance Wild Animal Control Operator License
Nuisance Wild Animal Control
Bat Exclusion Authorization Application
When 14 or fewer bats are inside a structure, a bat exclusion can be performed at any time of the year. However, when 15 or more bats are inside a structure, it is illegal to perform an exclusion between May 16-July 31. In situations where human health and safety is at risk, a property owner/designee may seek written authorization from the Chief of the Division of Wildlife to perform a bat exclusion during the restricted dates. Before applying for authorization, the property owner/designee must inspect the property for bats and perform two bat watches at the structure within a 7-day period. To apply for this exclusion authorization, please complete and return Bat Exclusion Authorization Application.
Please call the ODNR Division of Wildlife customer service at 1-800-WILDLIFE (945-3543) for more information.
Commercial Nuisance Wild Animal Control
Below are the materials you will need to complete the application in order to become a Commercial Nuisance Wild Animal Control Operator (CNWACO). The fee for obtaining a CNWACO license is $40 per year and the license must be renewed annually by the last day of February.
Study Materials:
- Nuisance Wild Animal Control Certification Manual
- ORC 1531.40 Nuisance wild animal removal or control services; license
- OAC 1501:31-15-03 Nuisance wild animal control
Application:
This application is for businesses and individuals performing Nuisance Wild Animal Control for hire. Landowners wishing to apply for a deer damage or goose damage permit must apply for those separately.
Test
Required for all permit holders and employees who will perform Nuisance Wild Animal Control activities.
- Number of questions: 100
- Has a time limit of: 01:30:00
- Must be finished in one sitting. You cannot save and finish later.
- Questions displayed per page: 5
- Will allow you to go back and change answers.
- Will let you finish with some questions unanswered if you are not sure of the answer.
- Passing grade=80%
- Take the Ohio CNWACO Certification Test
Frequently Asked Questions
I am an employee of a company. Do I need my own Commercial Nuisance Wild Animal Control Operator license?
No, but you must be certified or work under on-site supervision of a certified employee. On-site supervision shall be while staying within a distance from the person that enables uninterrupted, unaided visual and auditory communications.
I did not pass the test the first time I took it. Can I take the test again? And will I be penalized for taking it multiple times?
Yes, you may retake the test as many times as you need. There is no penalty for taking it more than once.
Do I need to take the certification test before I submit my permit application?
No, you may send in your application at any time. All that is required with the application is the $40 annual fee.
I passed my certification test, but I was not able to print my certificate. What do I do?
We can print your certificate for you if necessary. Please call (614) 265-6439 with your request. Be sure to provide your mailing address.
Can I save a copy of my certificate to my computer?
Yes, you can save your certificate as a pdf. Doing so will give you the ability to print it at any time.