Austin Parks and Recreation

All facilities will be closed Monday, May 11 for staff training. Parks will remain open. Learn more.

Person walking a dog on a paved trail by a river lined with trees

Wildlife Austin - Research Permits

Yellow Breasted Chat research Indiangrass 5 29 2023 Davis (87) small

Yellow-breasted Chat research conducted at a preserve.

Researchers who have a conservation need to conduct activities within Austin parks and preserves that are otherwise prohibited may apply for a Scientific Research Permit.

 

Sherman flag small

A Sherman live trap deployed for small mammal research.

Permit Application and Submission Process

If you are a researcher who would like access to a park or preserve in Austin, please download and fill out the Scientific Research Permit Application detailing your research goals, methods, etc.  Once you have completed the application, please email it to the Scientific Research Permit Coordinator to initiate the review process.  Please allow a minimum of 4 weeks to complete the permit application process as permit applications will be reviewed for scientific rigor and conservation need.  During this time staff will communicate with researchers to facilitate the process.