Licenses & Permits
MRC Licensing and Permit Information
In general, most activities associated with utilization of marine resources require licenses or special permits. Our agency Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page often has quick answers to many questions, but if you have a more in depth question about licensing or permitting try using the following links to find out where a license or permit is required, how to obtain a license or permit, license sales information, MRC staff contact information for specific types of licenses or permits, and the restrictions associated with certain activities.
Commercial Fishing Licensing, Permits and Registration
Special Permit and Limited Entry Requirements - Commercial fishing related to certain species, gear types, and fishing areas require special permits or eligibility. Click here for eligibility requirements and staff contact information.
Fixed Fishing Device Licensing - Licensing information related to pound nets, staked gill nets, fyke nets, and crab pound nets and traps.
Estate Planning for Commercial Licenses - How to transfer commercial fishing licenses after the death of a loved one.
Recreational Fishing Licensing, Permits and Registration
All Recreational Saltwater Fishing Licenses and vessel registration are issued by the Department of Wildlife Resources.
Recreational Species Permits - Certain recreational fisheries in Virginia, such as the February black sea bass season, require a no-cost permit for participation. Permittees may be required to report harvest to the commission. As of 2023, a species permit is no longer required to target cobia in Virginia.
