A NSW Government website

Catch and release licence

These licences allow handlers to legally catch and release reptiles (usually snakes) or possums from commercial and residential properties.

Native animals are protected in New South Wales by the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

In some circumstances, native animals can damage property or pose a threat to human safety.

Catch and release licences granted under the BC Act allow handlers to legally catch and release reptiles (usually snakes) or possums from commercial and residential properties or public spaces to mitigate damage or ensure human safety and animal welfare.

Brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)

The Department of Planning and Environment may grant a licence to persons or businesses to catch and release possums to mitigate damage to property.

Juvenile tiger snake (Notechis scutatus)

The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water may issue a licence to suitably qualified people to catch and release reptiles.

Contact us

Wildlife Team

Phone: 02 9585 6406

Email: [email protected]