Exemption Guide
Last verified: March 2026Wildlife Management
The Texas wildlife management exemption lets you keep your property tax savings while managing land for native wildlife instead of traditional agriculture. You must already have an ag (1-d-1) valuation, implement at least 3 of 7 management practices, and file an approved Wildlife Management Plan (Form PWD 885-W).
How It Works
What is the wildlife management valuation?
Wildlife management valuation allows Texas landowners to maintain their property tax savings while shifting from traditional agricultural use to managing land for native wildlife habitat. It's not a separate exemption - it's an alternative qualifying use under the same 1-d-1 special valuation.
Key Requirement
Your land must already have an agricultural (1-d-1) valuation
You cannot apply for wildlife management on land that has never had an ag exemption. This is the most common misunderstanding. Read our comparison of wildlife vs. ag exemptions for the full picture.
Management Practices
The 7 recognized practices
Texas Parks and Wildlife recognizes these seven practices. You must actively perform at least three.
Application Process
How to apply
Verify existing ag valuation
If you don't have one, establish it first through traditional agricultural use.
Draft your Wildlife Management Plan
Use Form PWD 885-W or work with a consultant familiar with your county.
File by April 30
Submit to your county appraisal district with the plan and a property map.
Document year-round
Photos, dated logs, and census data. Most counties require annual reporting.
What your plan must include
Many landowners hire a wildlife management consultant to draft their plan. Consultants familiar with your county can tailor it to what reviewers expect.
Don't have an ag valuation yet? Start with the agricultural exemption or the beekeeping exemption (easiest path for small acreage), then convert to wildlife management once established.
Watch Out
Common mistakes
No existing ag valuation
The number one reason for denial. Land must already qualify under 1-d-1.
Only doing 2 practices
Three is the minimum. Some counties informally expect 4-5 for larger properties.
Targeting non-native species
Axis deer, nilgai, and other exotics don't count as primary target species.
Poor documentation
If you can't prove you did the work, it's as if you didn't. Keep dated photos and logs.
One-time efforts
Management must be ongoing, not a one-time brush clearing that goes unmaintained.
No formal plan on file
A Wildlife Management Plan (Form PWD 885-W) must be submitted with your application.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an existing ag exemption to get a wildlife exemption?
Yes. Wildlife management valuation is a conversion from an existing agricultural (1-d-1) valuation, not a standalone exemption. Your land must currently have an ag valuation before you can switch to wildlife management.
What are the 7 wildlife management practices?
The seven recognized practices are: (1) habitat control, (2) erosion control, (3) predator management, (4) providing supplemental water, (5) providing supplemental food/food plots, (6) conducting census counts, and (7) providing shelter (nesting boxes, brush piles). You must actively perform at least 3 of these 7.
What wildlife species qualify?
Your management plan must target native Texas wildlife species. This includes white-tailed deer, turkey, quail, dove, waterfowl, songbirds, and many other native species. Exotic or non-native species (like axis deer or blackbuck antelope) do not qualify as the primary target species.
How often do I need to update my wildlife management plan?
Most counties require annual reporting of your management activities, though the formal Wildlife Management Plan itself doesn't need to be rewritten each year. You should document your activities throughout the year and be prepared to show evidence of at least 3 active management practices.
Can I hunt on land with a wildlife exemption?
Yes, hunting is compatible with a wildlife exemption and can be part of your management plan (specifically under predator management or population management). However, the exemption cannot be based solely on hunting - you must demonstrate broader habitat management.
What is the minimum acreage for wildlife management?
Most counties use the same minimum as their agricultural valuation - typically 10 acres. However, some counties differ. Fort Bend County, for example, requires 12.5 acres for wildlife management. Always check your specific county's requirements.
Other Exemption Types
Explore other options
Check your county
Rules vary by county. Find local requirements and contacts.
Estimate your savings
See how much this exemption could save you annually.