SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources says there are new requirements for those who want to buy and resell shed antlers commercially.

Each winter, deer, elk and elk shed their antlers and grow new ones in the spring. Many Utahns enjoy searching for shed antlers each year.

However, there are new laws.

According to a press release from the DWR, the Utah Wildlife Board passed a new law in May. The law states that legally acquired shed antlers or horns can be sold at any time “in whole or altered condition.”

Commercial register extract

However, for the commercial purchase of antlers, a commercial register certificate is required, i.e. a document that authorizes a specific activity.

According to the press release, a “commercial antler buyer” is a legal or natural person who purchases antlers or horns with the aim of reselling them for a profit.

“This new law took effect on July 1, and we wanted to remind the public of this rule before shed antler collection begins next year,” said Rusty Robinson of the DWR. “This new law helps provide clarity on the legality of this growing industry in Utah.”

The DWR said the new law does not apply to those who pick up antlers or horns from the ground and then sell them to an antler buyer.

“Individuals hunting antlers in Utah will continue to be exempt from license or permit fees unless they plan to purchase and resell the antlers commercially,” the press release states.

The registration certificate is valid for one year and costs $150. It can be purchased in several ways — online, at a DWR office, or with any available license agent.

You can find more information about shed antlers here.