Beaver Damage Control

Question: I want to know more about the removal of beaver dams.

Answer: No Chapter 30 permits are required to remove a beaver dam and related material; however, no streambed or lakebed material can be removed, dredged or otherwise taken out of the waterway.

A private landowner, lessees, or occupants may remove beaver dams causing damage or a nuisance without any sort of permit, permission or authorization from the DNR.

A landowner can hire someone or have unpaid help to remove dams on their property. People who assist in removal activities don't need any permits from the DNR, but they must possess written authorization from the landowner when conducting dam removal activities.

Refer to Chapter NR 12.10 (b)(3), Wis. Adm. Code [exit DNR], [PDF 105KB].

Notes

For beaver dams located on trout waters, contact the local Fisheries Biologist for assistance.

Animal damage complaints are also handled by the USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) (Animal Damage Control) at (800) 228-1368. In addition, you may refer to the Wisconsin DNR publication, Beaver Damage Control: Guidelines for People with Beaver Damage Problems [PDF 323KB] for further information.

Local permits and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations may also apply. We advise you to contact your local zoning office and your regional U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office [exit DNR].