So You Want to Become a Michigan Marlin Monroe of the Animal Afterlife? How to Get Your Taxidermy License
Ever looked at a prize buck on the wall and thought, "Hey, I could totally do that... except, you know, with less hunting and more creepy basement vibes?" Well, my friend, you might have the makings of a taxidermist! But before you start prepping your spare room for a menagerie of deceased critters, there's a little hurdle to jump: getting your official Michigan Taxidermy License.
Don't Worry, It's Not Rocket Surgery (Unless You're Stuffing a Squirrel in a Spacesuit)
The good news is, becoming a licensed taxidermist in Michigan isn't rocket science. There are no exams to pass, no classes to take (though some taxidermy training is always a good call), and unlike brain surgery, you probably won't accidentally lobotomize a trophy deer (hopefully).
Here's what you need to do:
- Channel Your Inner Accountant (For Like, Five Minutes): You'll need to obtain a State Sales Tax License. Because hey, even dead animals gotta pay their fair share.
- Become Buddies with the DNR (That's Department of Natural Resources, Not a Dinosaur Revival Network): Head over to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/managing-resources/wildlife/wildlife-permits/taxidermy). Here, you can find the application form for your Taxidermy Permit.
- Show Me the Money! (But Not Too Much): There's a $100 fee associated with the permit, which is valid for three years. So, basically, that's less than a fancy cup of coffee per year to be a licensed animal embalmer. Pretty sweet deal, huh?
Pro Tip: While you're on the DNR website, be sure to brush up on the state's regulations for possessing game animals. Nobody wants to accidentally become a taxidermy outlaw!
So You've Got Your License, Now What?
Now that you're officially a licensed thrill-seeker in the world of the recently deceased, here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- The DNR can inspect your taxidermy business at any reasonable time. So, maybe hold off on using that spare room as a torture chamber for squirrels with jetpacks (just a suggestion).
- The permit only applies to regulated birds and mammals. If you want to practice your skills on Fluffy the goldfish or Aunt Mildred's prized poodle (with permission, of course!), you're good to go.
How To FAQs: Become a Michigan Taxidermy Mastermind
How to get a taxidermy license in Michigan?
Easy! Get a Sales Tax License, apply for a Taxidermy Permit through the DNR, and pay a small fee.
How much does a Michigan taxidermy license cost?
A steal at only $100, valid for three years.
Do I need a taxidermy class in Michigan?
Nope, no classes required, but some training is always a good idea!
Can I taxidermy my pet goldfish in Michigan?
Sure! The permit only applies to regulated game animals.
Can the DNR raid my basement taxidermy lair?
They can inspect your business at reasonable times, so keep it professional (and maybe avoid the squirrel jetpack experiment).
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