Do I need a permit to retain a stranded marine mammal for the purposes of public display?
A permit is required to hold a releasable marine mammal in captivity for any purpose, including public display. The MMPA gives the Secretary of Commerce authority to enter into agreements with persons to rescue or import “stranded” marine mammals for the purpose of “rehabilitation” (Section 109(h)). During the course of rehabilitation, a marine mammal may be determined to be releasable (return to the wild) or non-releasable (necessary to retain in captivity) according to the criteria set forth in 50 CFR ยง 216.27. Provided that authorization is granted by NOAA Fisheries, a marine mammal that has been classified as non-releasable may be held for the purposes of public display in accordance with the public display criteria listed above.
