Shellfish Import and Transfer Permits

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As specified in WAC 22-72-076, it is unlawful to import from out of state or transfer shellfish within Washington State without first obtaining a Washington state Shellfish Import or Shellfish Transfer Permit. Once a person submits a complete shellfish import permit or shellfish transfer permit, it usually takes the department one business day to process a transfer permit and typically 10 business days for an import permit  unless additional information is required.

SHELLFISH IMPORT PERMITS
Import permits from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife are required for the import of live shellfish from waters or facilities outside the State of Washington.  This includes, but is not limited to, shellfish for aquaculture, research or display purposes.  Shellfish which are market ready and do not come into contact with state waters do not require a permit.

Import permits will include conditions to ensure that diseases, pests and invasive species do not enter the State’s waters. Permits may be modified or revoked upon a finding of an aquatic disease or pest or upon determination of violation of the conditions of a permit. (RCW 77.15.350)

SHELLFISH TRANSFER PERMITS
Transfer permits from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife are required for the  transfer of shellfish, shellfish aquaculture products (including oyster seed, cultch and shell), aquaculture equipment (including aquaculture vehicles and vessels) or any marine organisms adversely affecting shellfish.  Shellfish Transfer Permit include conditions that eliminate or reduce the risk of transferring marine pests, such as oyster drills, from one body of water to another.  Certain areas are identified as oyster drill areas (WAC 220-72-011 and 220-72-015). Transfer permit conditions document transfer vehicles, cleaning and disposal methods and other preventative measures. 

Send the Shellfish Transfer Permit or Shellfish Import Permit application:

Washington Dept of Fish and Wildlife
Point Whitney Shellfish Lab.
1000 Point Whitney Road
Brinnon, WA 98320
Attn: Brady Blake

Email: Brady.Blake@dfw.wa.gov
Fax: (360) 796-0108

If you have questions please contact:

Brady Blake
(360) 796-4601 ex 223
brady.blake@dfw.wa.gov

Paul Clarke
(360) 796-4601 ex 231
paul.clarke@dfw.wa.gov