agent handbook for issuing pennsylvania fishing licenses ... · f) license year 5 g) customer...

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Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission

Agent Handbook for Issuing

Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits

PALS Edition

Contact Information

Direct equipment or electronic license issuing related questions for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) to the

Helpdesk at:

WebPOS Users

1-800-964-7705

VeriFone Users

1-800-280-4853

Representatives are available to assist you

24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week

Direct all other questions and correspondence to:


Division of Licensing and Registration

P.O. Box 67000

Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000

www.fishandboat.com

Telephone:

1-877-707-4085

(717) 705-7930

Fax: (717) 705-7931

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday

Closed on State Holidays

Physical Address for UPS, FedEx, DHL, etc.:


Division of Licensing and Registration

1601 Elmerton Avenue


http://www.fishandboat.com/

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Table of Contents

PFBC Regional Offices 4

SECTION I - General Information

A) PFBC Web Site 5

B) PALS Helpdesk 5

C) PFBC Agent Portal 5

D) Agent Email 5

E) Agent Responsibilities 5

F) License Year 5

G) Customer Identification Number (CID) 5

H) Senior Resident Lifetime Licenses 5

I) Social Security Number Requirements 5

J) Federal Assistance 6

SECTION II - Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses & Permits

A) License & Permit Prices 7

B) Multi-Year License and Permit Prices 8

C) License Certificate 9

D) Fishing License Types 11

E) Stamp & Permit Types 12

F) Multi-Year Fishing License Types 15

G) Multi-Year Stamp and Permit Types 15

H) Qualifications/Requirements for Resident Licenses 16

I) Military Personnel Exemption (Active Duty Only) 16

J) Selling a PALS License 17

K) Vouchers 19

L) Redeeming a Voucher 19

M) Replacement Licenses 20

N) Voids, Reversals, and Reprints 20

O) The Outdoor Shop 22

SECTION III – Issuing Agent Operations

A) Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency 22

B) Issuing Agent Agreement 22

C) Sub-Agents Prohibited 22

D) Bond Coverage 22

E) Banking 22

F) Automatic Clearing House/Electronic Funds Transfer 22

G) Insufficient Funds 22

H) Voided Licenses 22

I) Ordering Supplies 23

J) Compliance 23

K) Inspections 23

SECTION IV - Instructions for County Treasurers and PFBC Regional Law Enforcement Offices

A) Disabled Veterans (DAV) 24

B) Reduced Disabled Veteran 24

C) National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve 24

D) Prisoner of War (POW) 24

E) Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW) 24

F) No License Required 24

G) Records Retention 24

H) Voided Licenses 24

I) Senior Resident Lifetime Upgrade 24

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SECTION V – Issuing Use Permit Decals

A) General Information 25

B) Issuing a Use Permit Through PALS 25

C) Issuing a Use Permit Decal “Over the Counter” 25

D) Reports 26

E) Agent 26

SECTION VI – Charter Boat/Fishing Guide’s Guide

A) General Information 27

B) Applicant and Permit Information 28

C) Display of Permits and Decals 28

D) Other Requirements 28

E) Special Issuing Agents for Fishing Licenses 29

F) General Fishing License Agent Information 29

Sample Forms

PFBC-769, Application for PFBC Unpowered Boat Use Permit 30

PFBC-UP001, Issuing Agent’s Use Permit Decal Report 31

PFBC-770, Use Permit Supply Request 32

PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log 33

PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania Residency and/or

Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number 34

U. S. Veteran’s Administration Sample Letter 35

PFBC-G-1, Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application 36

Completed Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application 37

Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Renewal Application 38

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission Regulations

For Issuing Agents 39

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PFBC Regional Law Enforcement Offices - Direct questions regarding the eligibility of applicants or other regulatory issues to your

local office.

NORTHWEST REGION –

11528 State Highway 98, Meadville, PA 16335

814-337-0444 ♦ Fax: 814-337-0579

Counties - Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango, Warren

SOUTHWEST REGION –

236 Lake Road, Somerset, PA 15501-1644

814-445-8974 ♦ Fax: 814-445-3497

Counties - Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Somerset, Washington, Westmoreland

NORTHCENTRAL REGION -

595 East Rolling Ridge Drive, Bellefonte, PA 16823

814-359-5250 ♦ Fax: 814-359-5254

Counties - Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder,

Tioga, Union

SOUTHCENTRAL REGION -

1704 Pine Road, Newville, PA 17241

717-486-7087 ♦ Fax: 717-486-8227

Counties - Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, York

NORTHEAST REGION –

5566 Main Road, Sweet Valley, PA 18656

570-477-5717 ♦ Fax: 570-477-3221

Counties - Bradford, Carbon, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming

SOUTHEAST REGION –

255 West Brubaker Valley Road, Box 9, Elm, PA 17521-0009

717-626-0228 ♦ Fax: 717-626-0486

Counties - Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Schuylkill

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SECTION I

General Information

A. Web Site - For the latest information on fishing and boating in Pennsylvania visit our web site at www.fishandboat.com.

B. PALS Helpdesk – If you encounter a Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) equipment malfunction or electronic

license issuing problem, call the Automated License Systems (ALS) Helpdesk immediately at 1-800-280-4853 for VeriFone

device users and at 1-800-964-7705 for WebPOS users.

C. Agent Portal - In an effort to keep fishing license issuing agents informed and improve communications, the PFBC has created

a dedicated webpage for issuing agents to view any updates from Licensing, forms, press releases, promotional items, and much

more. The Issuing Agent Portal page is available at: http://fishandboat.com/agentportal.htm. Login into the page using your

email address and PALS Terminal number. Please e-mail us with any questions or with suggestions to improve the portal.

D. Agent Email - PFBC is requiring all agents provide and maintain a current e-mail address with the Commission. Agents can

forward email addresses by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Please include your business name and PALS

terminal number in the e-mail.

E. Agent Responsibilities - Fishing license issuing agents are required to keep an adequate supply of PALS License stock on hand

and available for sale to customers. PFBC issued supplies may be ordered through the VeriFone or WebPOS terminals.

Equipment and license stock remains the property of the PFBC and may be recalled or picked up at any time. All agents are

required to provide a copy of the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet to any person requesting one.

All agents and their employees involved in issuing fishing licenses and permits and preparing the required reports should be

familiar with the PFBC’s regulations and policies that provide guidance on the sale, responsibility and accountability of fishing

licenses and permits. The regular and routine use of this handbook may eliminate many procedural problems. Digital version

of the handbook is available at: http://fishandboat.com/images/admin/lars/agents/agent_handbook_fish.pdf.

F. License Year - Licenses and permits, with the exception of 1-Day Tourist, 3-Day Tourist, 7-Day Tourist, 1-Day Resident,

Resident Lifetime and multi-year licenses and permits are valid for up to 13 months including the year printed on the license

and the month of December of the prior year.

G. Customer Identification Number (CID) - Each customer will receive a unique CID through PALS when purchasing a license

for the first time. The CID will remain with the customer and will appear on future PALS licenses.

H. Senior Resident Lifetime Licenses - All agents are permitted to sell Resident Senior Lifetime Licenses through PALS to

eligible individuals.

I. Social Security Number Requirements – Since 1998, purchasers of a Pennsylvania fishing license have been required to

provide their social security numbers when they apply to purchase a fishing license. This requirement is set forth in federal and

state laws on enforcement of child support obligations. Similar requirements apply to other state licenses, including drivers’

licenses and hunting licenses. By now, purchasers of fishing licenses and the issuing agents who sell the licenses should be

familiar with these requirements.

J. Social Security Number Exemption - The Department of Public Welfare announced an extension of the exemption from the

Title IV-D Child Support Enforcement law requiring collection of Social Security Numbers (SSN) for recreational licenses.

Individuals applying for a Pennsylvania Fishing License are permitted to provide a PA driver's license number or non-driver

identification number as an alternative to disclosing their Social Security number (SSN).

For customers wishing to take advantage of this exemption, agents must complete PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania

Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number, recording the individual's PA driver's license number or non-

driver identification number.

After completing the PFBC-L-101 form, agents must contact the ALS Helpdesk, to obtain a customer identification number

(CID), at 1-800-280-4853 for VeriFone device users and at 1-800-964-7705 for WebPOS users or the Division of Licensing and

Registration at 1-877-707-4085 during our standard office hours, Monday through Friday 8:00A.M. To 4:00 P.M.

http://fishandboat.com/agentportal.htm

mailto:[email protected]

http://fishandboat.com/images/admin/lars/agents/agent_handbook_fish.pdf

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K. Federal Assistance - The PFBC receives federal assistance in sport fish restoration and boating enhancement. Under Title VI

of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the U.S. Department of the Interior prohibits

discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, or disability. If you or any customer believes that they have been

discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility as described above or if you desire further information, please write

to:

Human Resources Office


P.O. Box 67000


Or

Office of Equal Opportunity

U.S. Department of the Interior

Washington, D.C. 20240

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SECTION II

Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits

A. License and Permit Prices

TYPE PRICE*

(includes all fees)

Resident $ 22.90

Senior Resident $ 11.90

Senior Resident Lifetime $ 51.90

1-Day Resident $ 11.90

Nonresident $ 52.90

7-Day Tourist $ 34.90



National Guard/Reserve Resident** $ 2.90

POW Resident** $ 2.90

POW Senior Resident Lifetime** $ 2.90

Reduced Disabled Veteran License** $ 2.90

Mentored Youth Permit $ 0.00

Voluntary Youth Fishing License $ 2.90

1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit # $ 9.90

Trout/Salmon Permit $ 9.90

3-Year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit $ 25.90



Lake Erie Permit $ 9.90

Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 15.90

Lifetime Upgrade $ 11.90

Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button $ 5.00

Alternate Display SOS Annual Fishing License Button $10.00

* Price includes $1.00 issuing agent fee and $0.90 electronic processing fee (Excluding the Mentored Youth Permit)

** Licenses available at County Treasurer offices and PFBC offices.

# Applies to Senior Lifetime purchased on or after 1/1/2015 or may also be purchased as a trout program donation.

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B. Multi-Year License and Permit Prices

TYPE

PRICE*

(includes all

fees)

3-Year Resident $ 64.90

3-Year Non-Resident $ 154.90

3-Year Senior Resident $ 31.90

3-Year Trout/Salmon Permit $ 25.90

3-Year Lake Erie Permit $ 25.90

3-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 43.90



5-Year Senior Resident $ 51.90



5-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $ 71.90





10-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit $141.90

1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit # $ 9.90

1-Year Lake Erie Permit *** $ 9.90

1-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit *** $ 15.90

Multi-Year Upgrade Card $11.90

Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button $ 5.00

Alternate Display SOS Annual Fishing License Button $ 10.00

* Price includes $1.00 issuing agent fee and $0.90 electronic processing fee.

*** Permits apply only to multi-year licenses

# May also be purchased as a trout program donation.

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C. License Certificate - This constitutes and is recognized as the "LEGAL FISHING LICENSE" issued to a license buyer

desiring to fish or angle in Commonwealth waters.

1. DO NOT laminate licenses. They are printed on yellow heat-sensitive paper and lamination will cause darkening of the

license. Customers should be instructed of this when purchasing a license.

2. Instruct the license buyer to sign their license immediately upon receipt.

3. Different graphic types are displayed for the various licenses and permit privilege combinations. If no permit is purchased,

a Pennsylvania state graphic will be displayed. Please review the possible combinations and become familiar with how the

license should print and appear to the license buyer.

LICENSE WITH NO PERMIT

PRIVILEGES

LICENSE WITH

TROUT/SALMON AND LAKE

ERIE PERMIT PRIVILEGES

LICENSE WITH A

TROUT/SALMON PERMIT

PRIVILEGE

LICENSE WITH COMBINATION

PERMIT PRIVILEGES

LICENSE WITH A LAKE ERIE

PERMIT PRIVILEGE

1-DAY TOURIST

LICENSE WITH COMBO

PRIVILEGE

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MULTI YEAR LICENSE WITH

NO PERMIT

OUTDOOR SHOP INTERNET

LICENSE WITH

TROUT/SALMON PERMIT

PRIVILEGES

OUTDOOR SHOP INTERNET

LICENSE WITH A

TROUT/SALMON PERMIT

PRIVILEGE

MULTI YEAR LICENSE WITH

MULTI YEAR TROUT/SALMON

PERMIT PRIVILEGE

SENIOR LIFETIME LICENSE

AND 10YEAR MULTI-YEAR

TROUT/SALMON PRIVILEGE

PURCHASED AFTER 01/01/2015


WITH LAKE ERIE PERMIT

PRIVILEGE


WITH LAKE ERIE PERMIT AND

ANNUAL TROUT/SALMON

PRIVILEGE PURCHASED AFTER

01/01/2015

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D. Fishing License Types

1. Resident – Annual license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania.

2. Senior Resident – Annual license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over. Buyers may

purchase a Senior Resident License anytime during the license year that they reach 65.

3. Senior Resident Lifetime – Lifetime license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over.

Buyers may purchase a Senior Resident Lifetime license anytime in the calendar year that they turn 65 years of age.

4. 1-Day Resident – Issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania for one 24-hour period, and are not valid from March 15th

through April 30th. Customer must specify the start time and date of intended use. The license will be valid for the 24-

hour period following the specified time.

5. Nonresident – Annual license issued to nonresidents of Pennsylvania.

6. 7-Day Tourist - Issued for seven consecutive days. Customer must specify the starting date.

7. 3-Day Tourist - Issued for three consecutive days. Customer must specify the starting date.

8. 1-Day Tourist – Issued for one 24-hour period, and are not valid from March 15th

through April 30th. Customer must

specify the start time and date of intended use. The license will be valid for the 24-hour period following the specified

time. The license is all inclusive (includes all stamps & permits).

9. National Guard* – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that within the

previous 24 months they were deployed overseas as a member of the National Guard or the reserve component of the

armed forces for a period of 60 consecutive days or more, or that they were released early from service because of an

injury or disease incurred in the line of duty.

If a service member who is eligible for a National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve license inadvertently purchases a resident

license, the Division of Licensing and Registration will process an appropriate refund.

10. Prisoner of War (POW)* – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that

shows they were a prisoner of war.

11. Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW)* – Lifetime license issued to resident service members who can

provide documentation that shows they were a prisoner of war. Buyers may purchase a Senior Resident Lifetime POW

license anytime in the calendar year that they turn 65.

12. Disabled Veteran* - Issued to disabled veterans who meet certain qualifications. Please refer to page 24 for

qualifications.

13. Reduced Disabled Veteran* - Any disabled veteran who has a disability incurred in any war or armed conflict that

consists of the loss of one or more limbs, or total blindness, or who is between 60 and 99 percent disabled as certified by

the United States Veterans Administration and is a resident of this Commonwealth.

*This license is sold only at county treasurer, PFBC headquarters, and the six PFBC law enforcement regional offices.

14. Mentored Youth Permit and Voluntary Youth Fishing license - The Mentored Youth Fishing Permit is free, and the

Voluntary Youth Fishing License is $2.90 ($1.00 cost plus $1.90 in agent/transaction fee).

While both the permit and the Voluntary Youth Fishing License provide the opportunity for youth to fish on Mentored

Youth Fishing Days, the Voluntary Youth Fishing License provides an extended return for both Pennsylvania’s youth and

the Commission. For each license purchased for $2.90, the Commission receives $5 back in funding as a federal

reimbursement. These funds are dedicated to be used in youth outreach and education programs. The Commission receives

no federal reimbursement for Mentored Youth Permits.

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15. Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button –

Available to all current, adult and youth Pennsylvania fishing license customers who

possess a valid Pennsylvania fishing license that enables them to fish for the entire year.

Lifetime Senior License and Multi-Year License holders can also purchase the buttons.

For all eligible customers, the buttons are NOT required by law, and they are an optional

purchase.

Use of a valid Alternate Display Annual Fishing License Button meets the fishing license

display requirement as long as the angler has a license certificate in their possession.

16. Replacements – Replacement licenses can be issued to customers for licenses and permits that are lost or destroyed. All

license types may be replaced. Replacement licenses include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges) that

printed on the base license. The total cost for a replacement license and previously purchased permit or privilege that

printed on the base license is $6.90.

Stamps or permits (privileges) that do not print of the base license include the 140 1-yr Trout-Salmon, a 141 1-yr Lake

Erie, a 142 1-yr Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie, a 143 3-yr senior lifetime Trout-Salmon, a 144 5-yr senior lifetime

Trout-Salmon and a 145 10-yr senior lifetime Trout-Salmon. If a customer purchased one of these stamps or permits

(privileges), a replacement for these stamps or permits (privileges) will need to be processed in addition to replacing the

license. The total cost for replacing these stamps or permits (privileges) is $6.90 each.

E. Stamp and Permit Types

In addition to fishing license requirements, Pennsylvania law provides that certain permits are required for the privilege to fish

in certain waters or for certain species of fish in Pennsylvania.

The license buyer must purchase, or have previously purchased, a fishing license in order to buy a stamp or permit (privilege).

If a license buyer previously purchased a fishing license and is requesting an additional stamp or permit (privilege), agents must

enter the customer’s information in PALS and confirm that a license was issued and that all information is correct before

proceeding to sell the stamp or permit (privilege). PALS will print the previously purchased license type and it will include the

newly issued or purchased stamp or permit (privilege).

The customer will only be charged by PALS for the additional stamps or permits (privileges) purchased. The agent is required

to instruct the customer to destroy any previously purchased license documents.

1. Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit

a. General - Trout/salmon anglers are required to purchase a trout/salmon permit when fishing for species of trout or

salmon in certain waters. The Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit privileges are valid for the year printed on the license

certificate and the month of December in the prior year.

b. Individuals Who Need a Trout/Salmon Permit- Go to the PFBC’s web site at www.fishandboat.com or refer to the

Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Trout/Salmon Permit

i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.

ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are issued institutional fishing licenses.

iii. Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license and Trout-Salmon permit before January 1, 2015.

iv. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."

v. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.

vi. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult

their Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

d. Special Note for Senior Resident Lifetime License Holders

Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime License before January 1, 1991, are NOT required to buy a

permit.

http://www.fish.state.pa.us/

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Beginning January 1, 2015, Senior Resident Lifetime License holders will be required to purchase a Trout/Salmon

Permit each year that the license holder desires to fish for trout or purchase a 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year trout/salmon

permit.

Senior Resident Lifetime License holders who purchased a Trout/Salmon Permit or a Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake

Erie Permit before January 1, 2015 are "grandfathered", they remain exempt from the requirement to purchase a

Trout/Salmon Permit annually. If the permit is lost, the license holder may purchase a replacement license. The

replacement license will include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges).

2. Lake Erie and Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits

a. General – Anglers are required to purchase a Lake Erie or Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie permit privilege

when fishing in the waters of Lake Erie including Presque Isle Bay and the following Lake Erie tributaries:

i. Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, CrookedCreek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek,Mill Creek,

Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek,

Twentymile Creek and WalnutCreek.

The stamps or permits (privileges) are valid for the year printed on the license certificate and the month of

December in the prior year.

b. Individuals Who Need a Lake Erie Permit - All individuals not listed in paragraph C (below) are required to

purchase a permit, sign their name on the face of the license, and display the license and permit when fishing. For

more information, consult the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Lake Erie Permit i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.

ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are authorized to fish using an

institutional license.

iii. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."

iv. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.

v. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult


d. Special Note for Senior Resident Lifetime License Holders - A person who purchases a Senior Resident Lifetime

License and fishes in Lake Erie or its tributaries is only required to purchase one Lake Erie Permit which is valid for

the licensee's lifetime. Also, if a Senior Resident Lifetime License holder purchases a combination permit on or after

January 1, 2015, the Lake Erie portion of the combo permit will be valid for the licensee's lifetime; however, Senior

Resident Lifetime License holders will be required to purchase a Trout/Salmon Permit each following year that the

license holder desires to fish for trout or purchase a 3, 5 or 10-year senior lifetime trout/salmon permit.

If selecting a Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permit, The Lake Erie permit will print on the base Senior

Lifetime license with no expiration date and the 1-year Trout-Salmon Permit will print on a separate license document

with an expiration date of 12/31.

3, 5 or 10-year senior lifetime trout/salmon permits or 1-Year Trout/Salmon Permits are to be folded in half lengthwise

and the permit’s print image is to be displayed on the left side of the license.

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3. Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits - License buyers may purchase a combination permit in place of the

individual Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permit. The net cost of the Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit privilege

is $3.00 less than the combined cost of the individual permits.

When issuing a license through PALS, select both permit types. The system will automatically recognize the Combination

request and calculate the cost accordingly.

4. Additional Trout /Salmon Permits Available for Purchase as Donations - Beginning January 1, 2015, anglers who wish

to donate to the PFBC’s Stocked Trout Program can purchase additional 1-year trout-salmon permits (privilege code 140)

through PALS. Anglers can purchase more than one 1-year trout-salmon permits per fishing license year, but only one

permit per transaction.

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F. Multi-Year Fishing License Types

1. Resident – 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania.

2. Senior Resident – 3 or 5 year multi-year license issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania 65 years of age and over.

Buyers may purchase a multi-year Senior Resident License anytime during the license year that they reach 65.

3. Nonresident – 3, 5 or 10 year multi-year license issued to nonresidents of Pennsylvania.

4. Replacements – Replacement licenses can be issued to customers for licenses and permits that are lost or destroyed. All

license types may be replaced. Replacement licenses include all previously purchased stamps or permits (privileges).

G. Multi-Year Stamp and Permit Types

In addition to fishing license requirements, Pennsylvania law provides that certain permits are required for the privilege to fish

in certain waters or for certain species of fish in Pennsylvania.

The multi-year license buyer must purchase, or have previously purchased, a multi-year fishing license in order to buy a multi-

year stamp or permit (privilege). During the same license year the multi-year license was purchased, multi-year license buyers

may purchase a stamp or permit (privilege) that matches the expiration year of their multi-year license or purchase a 1-year

stamp or permit (privilege) that is valid for the year printed on the license certificate and the month of December in the prior

year. If purchasing a stamp or permit (privilege) for a multi-year license outside the license year the multi-year license was

purchased, the buyer would only have the option to purchase a 1-year stamp or permit (privilege) that is valid for the year

printed on the separate license certificate and the month of December in the prior year.

If a license buyer previously purchased a fishing license and is requesting an additional stamp or permit (privilege), agents must

enter the customer’s information in PALS and confirm that a license was issued and that all information is correct before

proceeding to sell the stamp or permit (privilege). PALS will print the previously purchased license type and it will include the

newly issued or purchased stamp or permit (privilege).

The customer will only be charged by PALS for the additional stamps or permits (privileges) purchased. The agent is required

to instruct the customer to destroy any previously purchased license documents.

5. Multi-Year Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit

a. General - Trout/salmon anglers are required to purchase a trout/salmon permit when fishing for species of trout or

salmon in certain waters. The Trout/Salmon Stamp Permit privileges are valid through the year printed on the license

certificate.

b. Individuals Who Need a Trout/Salmon Permit- Go to the PFBC’s web site at www.fishandboat.com or refer to the

Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

c. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Trout/Salmon Permit

i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.

ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are issued institutional fishing licenses.

iii. Individuals who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license and Trout-Salmon permit before January 1, 2015.

iv. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."

v. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.

vi. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult


MULTI-YEAR FISHING LICENSE

UPGRADE A durable plastic card version of the Multi-year

Fishing license is available. This upgrade is available

for $11.90 and can be purchased through

issuing agents or the Outdoor Shop.

http://www.fish.state.pa.us/

16

Multi-Year Lake Erie and Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits

d. General – Anglers are required to purchase a Lake Erie or Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie permit privilege

when fishing in the waters of Lake Erie including Presque Isle Bay and the following Lake Erie tributaries:

i. Cascade Creek, Conneaut Creek, Crooked Creek, Eightmile Creek, Elk Creek, Fourmile Creek, Mill Creek,

Raccoon Creek, Sevenmile Creek, Sixmile Creek, Sixteenmile Creek, Turkey Creek, Twelvemile Creek,

Twentymile Creek and Walnut Creek.

The stamps or permits (privileges) are valid for the year printed on the license certificate.

e. Individuals Who Need a Lake Erie Permit - All individuals not listed in paragraph C (below) are required to

purchase a permit, sign their name on the face of the license, and display the license and permit when fishing. For

more information, consult the Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

f. Individuals Who Do NOT Need a Lake Erie Permit i. Individuals less than 16 years of age.

ii. Individuals who are exempt from fishing license requirements or who are authorized to fish using an

institutional license.

iii. Individuals who fish on "free fishing days."

iv. Individuals who purchase One-Day Tourist licenses.

v. Individuals who fish on certain waters are exempt from this requirement and the license buyer should consult


6. Multi-Year Combination Trout-Salmon/Lake Erie Permits – Multi-Year license buyers may purchase a combination

permit in place of the individual Trout/Salmon and Lake Erie permit. The net cost of the Combination Trout/Salmon Lake

Erie Permit privilege is $7.90 less for a 3-year permit, $11.90 for a 5-year permit, and $3.00 for a 1-year permit than the

combined cost of the individual permits.

When issuing a license through PALS, select both permit types. The system will automatically recognize the Combination request

and calculate the cost accordingly.

H. Qualifications/Requirements for Resident Licenses

For all resident class licenses, applicants must furnish satisfactory "proof of residency" to the license agent. Resident class

licenses shall only be issued to bona fide residents of Pennsylvania. A bona fide resident is defined as a permanent resident

who has a fixed intent to return to Pennsylvania when he leaves and who maintains a permanent place of residence in

Pennsylvania. A person is not a bona fide resident while claiming residence in another state for any purpose.

One or a combination of the following documents must be presented:

1. Valid Pennsylvania driver's license

2. Valid Pennsylvania non-driver photo identification card

3. Current Pennsylvania Voter’s Registration Card

4. Proof of payment of Pennsylvania personal income tax as a resident of Pennsylvania; proof of payment of earned

income, personal income or per capita taxes showing residence in a Pennsylvania municipality.

If an applicant cannot furnish one of the documents listed above, they may complete a PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania

Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number. The completed affidavit of residency will be investigated by

a Waterways Conservation Officer (WCO). When using this form, the original form must be submitted to the Division of

Licensing and Registration within 10 days. Individuals that falsely claim Pennsylvania residency may be subject to legal

action.

I. Military Personnel Exemption (Active Duty Only)

To be eligible for the military waiver, an angler must be a bona fide Pennsylvania resident, be on active duty, be stationed

outside Pennsylvania and be here on authorized leave. While in the act of fishing, the military personnel must carry proof of

each of these requirements, such as a Pennsylvania Driver’s License, his or her military ID, and valid military orders showing

his or her place of assignment and leave status.

Under the law, a qualifying soldier, sailor, airman or marine does not receive a free Pennsylvania fishing license; instead

eligible active duty military personnel can legally fish without a license under the limited circumstances outlined in the law.

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The Commission recommends anyone taking advantage of this provision display their military ID while in the act of fishing in

much the same way they would a conventional fishing license.

The law does not exempt military personnel on leave from any other requirements of fishing or boating laws and regulations.

They must comply with all applicable seasons, sizes creel limits and other requirements.

Military Personnel who are stationed in Pennsylvania under permanent change of station order (PCS) for 6 months or more

qualify for a Resident License. This also includes residents of Pennsylvania stationed outside Pennsylvania provided they do

not become a resident of another state.

Non-resident students attending college in Pennsylvania are not entitled to resident licenses if their permanent residence is not

in Pennsylvania.

All license types except the 1-Day Tourist may require the purchase of additional stamps or permits (privileges) depending on

what species of fish a customer intends to fish for and where a customer intends to fish.

J. Selling a PALS License

1. Have the customer provide proof of residency as this will determine the type of license they are eligible to purchase.

2. Input all requested customer information into PALS. For detailed instructions on selling a license, please refer to your

POS 3750 or WebPOS User’s Guide.

3. Special Note on Social Security Numbers (SSN)

a. A customer’s SSN only needs to be entered into PALS once. PALS will retain the SSN for all future license sales.

b. Obtaining a SSN from first time customers and inputting the number into PALS.

i. WebPOS users – provide the auxiliary keypad to the customer and allow the customer to enter his or her SSN.

ii. VeriFone users – when prompted, turn the device toward the customer and ask them to enter the SSN.

iii. Or, provide the customer with a piece of paper and ask the customer to write down the SSN and provide it to

you. Return the paper to the customer or destroy it.

iv. Or, ask if the customer is willing to provide their SSN to you verbally.

c. Customers are required to provide a SSN when purchasing a license for the first time.

i. Certain customers who want to purchase one of the resident class licenses (such as the Amish) may not have a

SSN. A customer who claims that they do not have a SSN must complete and sign form PFBC-L-101, Affidavit

of Pennsylvania Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number. All original signed PFBC-L-

101 forms must be forwarded to the Division of Licensing and Registration within ten days of the purchase.

Agents must call the ALS help desk to obtain a customer identification number.

ii. For non-resident U.S. citizens - Agents must call the ALS help desk to obtain a customer identification number.

iii. For non-resident alien customers – Agents must enter either the “Green Card”, “Passport”, or “VISA” number

in PALS.

4. Verify the customer information in PALS and update if necessary.

5. Select the license and/or stamps or permits (privileges) the customer wants to purchase.

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LICENSE

CODE FISHING LICENSE TYPE

101 Resident Annual

102 Non-Resident Annual

103 3-Day Tourist

104 Senior Resident Annual

105 Senior Resident Lifetime

106 1-Day Tourist

107 7-Day Tourist

108 1-Day Resident

109 Mentored Youth Permit

110 Voluntary Youth Fishing License

119 Reduced Disabled Veteran*

120 DAV Resident Lifetime*

121 DAV Senior Resident Lifetime*

122 DAV Resident Annual*

123 National Guard*

124 POW Senior Resident Lifetime*

125 POW Resident Annual*

135 Alternative Display Annual Fishing License Button

140 1-Year Trout/Salmon Permit

143 3-year Senior Lifetime Trout/Salmon Permit



150 Trout/Salmon Permit

151 Lake Erie Permit

152 Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit

156 Senior Resident Lifetime Replacement (Pre-1991)

180 Lifetime Upgrade

*License is sold only at county treasurer, PFBC headquarters, and the six PFBC law enforcement regional offices.

LICENSE

CODE MULTIYEAR FISHING LICENSE TYPE

030 3-Year Resident

031 3-Year Non-Resident

032 3-Year Senior Resident


034 3-year Lake Erie Permit

035 3-Year Combination Trout/Salmon Lake Erie Permit

050 5-Year Resident


052 5- Year Senior Resident




060 10-Year Resident






141 1-Year Lake Erie Permit


185 Multi-Year Upgrade Card

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6. Verify all information is correct and print the license.

7. Ensure that the correct type of license is issued. Agents must review each license after printing it before providing it to the

customer. If the license displays incorrect information or graphics, the license must be voided. If the license prints

incorrectly, the license must be reprinted immediately.

8. Give the license and receipt to the customer and provide only the last printed license.

9. Instruct the customer to sign the license.

10. Give the customer a Summary of Fishing Regulations & Laws booklet.

11. If you accept a personal check from an applicant, you must process the check. The check should be made payable to you

or your business.

12. Customers on the Revocation List: Customers who have their fishing privileges revoked or suspended will be stopped

from purchasing fishing licenses using the PALS system. Once the customer’s revocation period has expired or they have

satisfied all conditions of their suspension, they will be authorized to purchase a fishing license. Customers with questions

about their Commission initiated suspension/revocation status can contact the PFBC’s Bureau of Law Enforcement at 717-

705-7861. Customers with questions about their Child Support suspension/revocation can contact the Department of

Public Welfare at 1-800-932-0211, Option #4.

K. Vouchers - A voucher for a license and stamps or permits (privileges) may be purchased for another individual. Agents must

collect the first and last name of the customer in PALS when issuing a voucher. A voucher will be issued and may be redeemed

for a license or permit containing the privilege indicated on the voucher. The voucher is non-refundable and expires as noted.

Individuals wishing to purchase vouchers for Christmas presents need to wait until December 1 of that year before purchasing a

voucher. An agent who issues a voucher is entitled to collect the applicable issuing agent fee.

L. Redeeming a Voucher - Agents are required to destroy all redeemed vouchers. Agents redeeming a voucher must ensure that

the individual redeeming the voucher is eligible to purchase the license type listed on the voucher. For example, an agent may

not redeem a voucher for a resident fishing license for an individual who is not a resident of Pennsylvania.

Vouchers may be redeemed at any issuing agent.

A voucher is not a fishing license. Individuals that use a voucher to fish are in violation of the Fish and Boat Code and may be

subject to legal action.

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Agents who redeem a voucher are not entitled to collect any additional issuing agent fees and shall issue all corresponding

licenses and permits to the voucher holder. Agents must collect all the information requested through PALS when issuing a

license when redeeming a voucher.

Replacement of a Voucher -If a customer presents a receipt from the purchase of a voucher, the voucher can be replaced by

entering the voucher number printed on the receipt into PALS. If a receipt from the purchase of a voucher is not available, the

voucher number can be obtained by calling the ALS Help Desk or PFBC Headquarters and by providing the name of the person

who purchased the voucher.

M. Replacement License – PALS provides the ability to issue a replacement license when an original license is lost or destroyed.

Since the system retains customer purchase information, agents can retrieve it regardless of where the license was purchased.

Follow the instructions for the type of PALS equipment in use.

WebPOS – Enter the customer identification number into the terminal; any previously purchased privileges are listed in the

Replacement section.

VeriFone – Select the Replacement option on the main sales screen; all privileges listed in the system will be displayed,

including replacements. Although these items can be selected, the system will not permit the transaction to proceed if the

customer is not entitled to purchase a replacement of a particular privilege.

Senior Resident Lifetime Replacements - If there is evidence that an original license was purchased, a PALS replacement

shall be issued, regardless of the year it was originally issued. The customer may need only to provide the original license

number. If the license was purchased prior to PALS, please contact the Division of Licensing and Registration for instructions

and guidance.

To find a customer in PALS, the customer may need to provide one of the following:

Customer identification number,

U.S. Driver’s license number,

Social Security number, or

Alternative forms of identification for Non-US Citizens such as a “Green Card”, “Passport”, or “VISA”.

If you are unable to locate a customer in PALS, you must contact the Division of Licensing and Registration for assistance.

1. Selling Additional Stamps and Permits While Issuing a Replacement Senior Resident Lifetime License– Replacement

fishing licenses include all stamps or permits (privileges) previously purchased by the customer. However, customers may

need to buy additional stamps or permits (privileges) when replacing a license.

VeriFone Agents: To sell additional permits or stamps when purchasing a replacement license, do the following:

i. Issue a replacement license using the Replacements option on the menu. This will automatically print a replacement

license with all previously issued permits or stamps.

ii. Use the Sale option on the menu to issue the requested stamp or permit. A second license with the newly purchased

stamp or permit will print. Provide this license to the customer.

Web POS Agents:

i. Additional stamps or permits may be selected from the Stamps section of the menu during the time a replacement

license is issued. Only one license with the newly purchased stamp or permit will be printed. Provide the license to

the customer.

See SECTION II, Pennsylvania Fishing Licenses and Permits, for assistance on who needs a stamp or permit privilege.

N. Voids, Reversals, and Reprints

1. Voids

Voids are used when a problem with a transaction is discovered AFTER the document has printed (i.e. a typographical

error occurred, the customer’s address is not correct on the printed documents, or the customer selected the incorrect type

of license).

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If you void a license or any stamp or permit (privilege), you must retain the document and write ‘VOID’ across the license.

Agents using WebPOS equipment can void any license issued during the current day. VeriFone agents can only void the

last completed transaction and the void must occur within 15 minutes of the transaction. To void a stamp or permit

(privilege) issued outside of these parameters, agents must call the PALS Help Desk or PFBC Harrisburg Headquarters for

assistance.

Agents are responsible for ensuring that all voided documents are returned to the PFBC within fifteen (15) days of the

transaction. Agents that fail to return voided license documents to the PFBC may be charged for value of the voided

licenses and permits sold.

Report all voids by recording them on form PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log and submit the voids along with the form to the

PFBC at:

Licensing Section – VOIDS

PA Fish & Boat Commission

P.O. Box 67000


2. Reversals

An agent may reverse a transaction if a problem is discovered BEFORE printing the document. Once a document is

printed, it cannot be reversed and must be voided.

3. Reprints

When a document fails to print properly (i.e. printer is out of paper, paper jam, etc.) agents shall reprint the license. There

is no charge or fees associated with a reprint.

Agents shall NOT use the reprint feature to issue a second copy of any document to be used as an “extra” license. The

agent shall issue and provide only one license document. All reprint requests are tracked by the system. Excessive

reprinting will be investigated by the Bureau of Law Enforcement.

WebPOS - Agents have two opportunities to reprint license documents:

Option 1. Upon conclusion of the transaction the WebPOS terminal will ask, “Did the license print correctly?” If you

answer No, another copy of the license documents will print and the reprint will be logged by PALS.

Option 2. Select the “Void/Reprint” option. This option allows a reprint of a license that was issuedwithin the same day

from when the original transaction was processed. To reprint any other documents, you must call the ALS Help Desk or

the PFBC headquarters.

VeriFone - Agents may reprint only the last license issued within 15 minutes of the completion of the transaction and if

it was the last transaction processed. To reprint any other documents, you must call the ALS Help Desk or the PFBC

headquarters.

O. The Outdoor Shop (www.pa.wildlifelicense.com) - An individual who purchased a fishing license through the PFBC’s PALS

powered Outdoor Shop, or internet based license sales outlet, may purchase a replacement license at any issuing agent. All

licenses purchased at an issuing agent can also be replaced on the Outdoor Shop.

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SECTION III

Issuing Agent Operations

Issuing agents are appointed by the PFBC to sell and distribute fishing licenses and permits, and to distribute PFBC authorized

information and materials to potential or active fishing license and permit holders and buyers.

A. Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency – All Fishing License Issuing Agents must complete and submit an

Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency and a $ 150.00 non-refundable application fee.

B. Issuing Agent Agreement – All Fishing License Issuing Agents must complete and submit a Fishing License Issuing Agent

Agreement. This Agreement covers all Issuing Agent operations pertaining to the issuance of fishing licenses and permits

through PALS at the business location described in the original Application for Fishing License Issuing Agency or the

application as amended by the Issuing Agent. Agents are permitted to sell licenses and permits only at the business location

specified in the application or approved by the PFBC, and at a place on the premises accessible to the public.

C. Sub-Agents Prohibited - Issuing agents, including county treasurers, are not permitted, under any circumstances, to appoint

sub-agents to issue fishing licenses or permits. Violation may result in the loss of an agent's authority to issue fishing licenses

and permits.

D. Bond Coverage - The minimum required bond coverage for each new agent location is $12,000.00. Existing issuing agents are

required to secure a bond in an amount determined by the combined value of the following items:

the two (2) highest EFT drafts that occurred during the opening days of trout season,

the replacement cost of the PALS equipment, and

if applicable, the value of any boat launch permits.

The PFBC will review, every three (3) years, the bond amounts for each issuing agent to determine whether an adjustment is

needed based on the above criteria.

There is no limit to how large a bond may be. An agent shall secure a sufficient bond amount to cover its projected highest

weekly license sales dollar amount.

E. Banking – Issuing Agents must maintain a bank account in a federally insured financial institution organized under the

authority of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or the United States. All money received from the sale of licenses and

permits, less the amount retained according to law as the Issuing Agent Fee, shall be deposited in the designated bank account.

The bank account must be able to accept Electronic Fund Transfers (EFT). Issuing Agents must notify the PFBC at least fifteen

(15) days prior to changing banks, account numbers, ownership status, business status, or other information used for the

purpose of collecting monies owed.

F. Automated Clearing House (ACH)/Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)-

ACH and/or EFT refer to the process of electronically collecting license sales revenue. As part of the agent agreement process,

agents are required to sign an ACH authorization agreement. This permits the PFBC to collect all funds due via an EFT from a

designated bank account.

Agents should print a PALS ACH report each week by running the ACH Inquiry transaction. This report should be run every

Tuesday and will show the previous week’s transaction totals and the amount of the EFT. Each weekly report shows all

transactions that occurred from 12:01 am Tuesday morning of the prior week through the following Monday at midnight. EFT

transactions will occur on the Thursday following the weekly EFT closeout period of midnight Monday. If discrepancies are

discovered, contact the PFBC immediately.

G. Insufficient Funds - Issuing Agents must have sufficient funds available in their designated bank account at the time of the

EFT for all licenses sold through the PALS system. Upon notification of insufficient funds for payment, PALS will

immediately suspend an Agent’s authority to issue license and permits and a $15.00 charge will be applied to the Agent. If an

agent fails an EFT three weeks in a row, the Bureau of Law Enforcement will dispatch a WCO to the business to collect the

PALS equipment and any funds due to the Commission. If funds can’t be collected, a bond claim will be filed for collection.

H. Voided Licenses - Agents shall use form PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log when submitting all voided licenses. All voids shall be

submitted within fifteen (15) days of the date of their issuance. Issuing agents are responsible for the license fees associated

with all voids not returned within the specified time frame. PFBC may collect license fees associated with voids through

subsequent EFT transactions.

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I. Ordering Supplies – Issuing Agents shall order PALS supplies and PFBC issued materials through the VeriFone or WebPOS

terminals.

J. Compliance - Agents that fail to comply with the rules and regulations regarding the operation of the agency or the issuance of

licenses or permits are subject to legal action initiated by the Bureau of Law Enforcement and subsequent revocation of the

issuing agency.

K. Inspections - Issuing agents shall allow PFBC personnel access to all records and equipment related to the PALS operation.

Issuing agents shall allow access to PFBC personnel to make inspections during reasonable business hours, with or without

advance notice, to determine whether the agent is in compliance with the laws and regulations governing the operation of the

agency.

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SECTION IV

Instructions for County Treasurers and

PFBC Offices

A. Disabled Veterans (DAV) – Certain service members qualify for a no fee Resident or Senior Resident Lifetime fishing license

and permits. For permanently disabled veterans that meet the requirements, a Resident or Senior Resident Lifetime License

shall be issued. A Combination Stamp graphic will be printed on all DAV licenses, the PALS system is programmed to do this

automatically.

a. To qualify for a DAV license and permits, service members must:

Be a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania and be a war or armed conflict veteran; and have a disability

incurred in any war or armed conflict, consisting of 100% or total disability as certified by the United

States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); or total blindness; or loss of one or more limbs; or loss of use

of one or more limbs.

Present a letter from the VA, with a claim number, verifying the disability or injury. This is the only

acceptable verification. A medical card is not acceptable. A copy of the VA letter must be kept on file by

the Treasurer. Documentation from the VA must state that the disability or injury is total and permanent.

Have an injury or disability that was incurred during a period of war or armed conflict. The qualifying

disability does not have to be combat incurred.

b. Maintain a copy of the VA letter on file.

c. Do not issue Senior Resident Licenses to disabled veterans.

B. Reduced Disabled Veteran - Any disabled veteran who has a disability incurred in any war or armed conflict that consists of

the loss of one or more limbs, or total blindness, or who is between 60 and 99 percent disabled as certified by the United States

Veterans Administration and is a resident of this Commonwealth.

C. National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation

that within the previous 24 months they were deployed overseas as a member of the National Guard or the reserve component

of the armed forces for a period of 60 consecutive days or more, or that they were released early from service because of an

injury or disease incurred in the line of duty.

If a service member who is eligible for a National Guard/Armed Forces Reserve license inadvertently purchases a resident

license, the Division of Licensing and Registration will process an appropriate refund. Direct all requests for refunds of

this nature to the Division of Licensing and Registration.

D. Prisoner of War (POW) – Annual license issued to resident service members who can provide documentation that shows they

were a prisoner of war.

a. Service member must provide official military documentation stating that they were a POW.

E. Senior Resident Lifetime Prisoner of War (POW) – Lifetime license issued to resident service members who can provide

documentation that shows they were a prisoner of war and meet the age requirements for a Senior Resident Lifetime License.

a. Service member must provide official military documentation stating that they were a POW.

F. No License Required - Any person who is a bona fide resident of Pennsylvania and is classified as totally blind or severely

disabled so that they are unable to cast or retrieve a line or bait hooks (see Section 2709 Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Code Act

1980-175) is exempt from license requirements, including permits.

G. Records Retention – Records and voids shall be retained as required by the Department of the Auditor General for audit

purposes.

H. Voided Licenses – All County Treasurers shall retain voided licenses, which must be kept on file to be audited by the Auditor

General.

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I. Senior Resident Lifetime Upgrade – Anglers who purchased a Senior Resident Lifetime license can now purchase a more

durable, plastic license. Request forms for the upgrade can be obtained on the PFBC website or the upgrade may be purchased

through PALS. The durable card style upgrade will be mailed by the Division of Licensing and Registration to the customer.

SENIOR RESIDENT LIFETIME LICENSE

UPGRADE A durable plastic card version of the Senior Resident

Lifetime license is available. This upgrade is

availablefor $11.90 and can also be purchased

through issuing agents or the Outdoor Shop

SECTION V

Issuing Use Permit Decals

A. General Information – Use Permit Decals are designed to provide the unpowered boater a quick

and easy way to get their boat on the water without going through the boat registration process.

Note: this is not a registration. Owners of unpowered boats (canoes, kayaks, rowboats, etc) can

launch their boats at Commonwealth owned lakes and access areas under the management of the

PFBC if their boat has a current registration or if it displays a valid PFBC Use Permit Decal. State

Parks launch and mooring permits are also recognized at PFBC lakes and access areas; PFBC Use

Permit Decals will be recognized at State Parks and State Forests lakes and access areas.

B. Issuing a Use Permit through PALS - The sale of 1-year and 2-year Launch (Use) Permits were added to PALS and as a

current fishing license issuing agent you will have access to this additional feature without increasing your current Fishing

Licensing bond. Launch (Use) Permits sales through PALS will be included in the weekly PALS EFT as fishing licenses and

no report is needed to be submitted to PFBC.

a. Cost - The cost is $12.90 for a one-year permit which will expire December 31st of the year it is issued. The cost for a

two-year permit is $20.90 which will expire December 31st of the year after it is issued. Price includes a $1.00 issuing

agent fee, $1.00 shipping & handling fee and $0.90 transaction fee for each use permit sold.

i. Enter customer and unpowered boat information in PALS.

ii. Print a temporary Launch (use) Permit which is valid for 30 days.

iii. The customer will receive the launch (use) permit decals in the mail within 2-3 weeks.

iv. Please instruct the boater, when the decals are received, that the Launch (Use) Permit Decal must be clearly

displayed on each side of the boat between the middle (amidships) and the rear (stern) just below the top of

the hull (gunwale). For low-volume boats, such as kayaks, decals may be placed on the deck between

amidships and the stern.

C. Issuing a Use Permit Decal “Over the Counter” – A customer must complete the Use Permit Decal application form (PFBC-

769) and provide the requested boat and applicant information.

a. Cost - The cost is $10 for a one-year permit which will expire December 31st of the year it is issued. The cost for a two-

26

year permit is $18 which will expire December 31st of the year after it is issued. Agents are permitted to only charge a

$1.00 issuing agent fee for each use permit decal issued.

i. Issue Use Permit Decals in numerical sequence.

ii. Write the Use Permit Decal number and your agent number on the customer application form.

iii. Instruct the user that the Use Permit Decal must be clearly displayed on each side of the boat between the

middle (amidships) and the rear (stern) just below the top of the hull (gunwale). For low-volume boats,

such as kayaks, decals may be placed on the deck between amidships and the stern.

D. Reports - Agents are required by law to submit reports of all “Over the Counter” permits sold or issued to the PFBC within

ten (10) days of issuance.

a. Delinquent agents are subject to a penalty of ten percent (10%) per month on any outstanding balance due the PFBC.

b. Reports will be audited for accuracy on the reported dates sold and when reports are submitted.

c. Checks or money orders covering Use Permit Decals fees must be remitted with reports.

E. Agent – Submit the following to the PFBC within ten (10) days:

a. PFBC-UP001, Use Permit Decal Report.

b. Completed Use Permit application form PFBC-769.

c. Check or Money Order covering fees made payable to PFBC.

27

SECTION VI

Charter Boat/Fishing Guide’s Guide

Everything You Need to Know

About Being a Pennsylvania

Charter Boat/Fishing Guide

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC)

www.fishandboat.com

A. General Information

Charter Boat- A boat operated as a commercial enterprise which carries passengers for hire for the purpose of fishing on the

waters of this Commonwealth.

Fishing Guide – A person who operates a commercial enterprise whereby he guides or leads other persons for the purpose of

fishing on the waters of this Commonwealth.

http://www.fishandboat.com/

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B. Applicant and Permit Information

1. Application and Applicant – A person desiring to be a charter boat operator or a fishing guide on the waters of the

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania must first apply for a permit on the form provided by the Commission (Charter

Boat/Fishing Guide Permit Application, PFBC-G-1) and submit the appropriate fee ($100 for residents; $400 for non-

residents). Applicants must be 16 years of age or older. To obtain an application access the PA Fish and Boat

Commission’s website at www.fishandboat.com for a printable version or call us at 717-705-7851.

2. Permit Duration – Charter boat/fishing guide permits are valid for a calendar year and expire on December 31 of the year

for which they were issued.

3. Permit Renewals – A holder of a charter boat/fishing guide permit must apply to the Commission for renewal of the

permit by completing the renewal application form provided by the Commission and by submitting it along with the

appropriate fee to the Commission. Renewal notices will be emailed to current permit holders during the month of October

or November of the preceding year.

4. Suspensions – The Commission may suspend or revoke a charter boat/fishing guide permit for noncompliance with the

terms and conditions of the applicable regulations or when the charter boat operator or fishing guide is convicted or

acknowledges guilt of a violation of the laws or regulations.

5. Compliance with Laws – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must comply with all federal, state and local laws and

regulations. Charter boat operators and fishing guides are responsible for ensuring that their employees, passengers and

customers comply with all fishing and boating laws and regulations.

C. Display of Permits and Decals

1. Permits – While operating a charter boat or fishing guide operation, charter boat operators and fishing guides must display

their permits on a hat or an outer garment in plain view. The charter boat operator and fishing guide may carry and display

the permit in the same holder containing a fishing license. Charter boat operators and fishing guides must present their

charter boat/fishing guide permits upon the request of an officer authorized to enforce the code. While onboard a boat

displaying a decal, the charter boat operator is exempt from the permit display requirements of this section provided the

permit is onboard the boat.

2. Decals – When a boat is used in the charter boat/fishing guide operation, the charter boat operator must display a decal

supplied by the Commission on both sides of the boat hull above the waterline and below the gunwale near the stern of the

boat or on each side window of the cockpit of the boat. When, due to exigent circumstances, a charter boat operator must

use a boat that does not display a charter boat/fishing guide decal, the charter boat operator must display the permit on a hat

or outer garment as required by this section.

D. Other Requirements

1. Boating Safety Education Certificate & USCG License – When a boat is used in the charter boat/fishing guide

operation, the charter boat operator must possess a boating safety education certificate issued by the Commission or by

another state in accordance with criteria of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or a boat

operator’s license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits must

provide proof of certification of boating safety education upon the request of the Commission.

2. Insurance – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must possess and maintain in full force and effect general liability

insurance for all periods which they are operating a charter boat/fishing guide operation on the waters of the

Commonwealth. The minimum amount of coverage is $250,000 for each occurrence and $500,000 in the aggregate.

Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits must provide proof of insurance upon the request of the

Commission.

3. CPR and First Aid – Charter boat operators and fishing guides must possess and maintain current certification in basic

cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic first aid skills. Applicants and holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits

must provide proof of CPR or basic first aid certification upon the request of the Commission.

4. Fishing License and Permits – Charter boat operators and their crewmembers and fishing guides must possess valid

fishing licenses and the stamps and permits required for the waters in which they fish. Charter boat operators and fishing

guides are responsible for ensuring that their employees, passengers and customers possess a valid fishing license and the

appropriate stamps and permits.

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5. Guide Operations on Boundary Waters – Individuals who operate charter boats or fishing guide operations on boundary

waters under the jurisdiction of the Commonwealth must possess a charter boat/fishing guide permit. If a person uses a

boat launch in the Commonwealth, then it is presumed that the person is operating a charter boat or fishing guide operation

on the waters of this Commonwealth.

E. Special Issuing Agents for Fishing Licenses

a. Holders of charter boat/fishing guide permits may apply to be a special issuing agent for the purpose of selling to their

customers 1-Day Fishing Licenses, 3-Day Tourist Fishing Licenses, 7-Day Tourist Fishing Licenses and trout/salmon

permits and special permits for fishing Lake Erie and tributaries. A holder of a charter boat/fishing guide permit may

seek to become a special issuing agent by completing and submitting to the Commission an application on the form

prescribed by the Commission. Applications to become a special issuing agent can be obtained by calling the

Commission at 717-705-7851.

b. Applications to become a special issuing agent must be accompanied by a bond or other security in a form satisfactory

to the Commission in an amount equal to the value of the licenses, and permits being requested by the applicant.

F. General Fishing License Agent Information

See General Information, Section I for all General Fishing License Agent Information.

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PFBC-769, Application for PFBC Unpowered Boat Use (Launch) Permit

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PFBC-UP001, Issuing Agent’s Use Permit Decal Report

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PFBC-770, Use Permit Supply Request

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PFBC-L-102, PALS Void Log

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PFBC-L-101, Affidavit of Pennsylvania Residency and/or Affidavit Pertaining to Social Security Number

*When using this form, the original form must be submitted to PFBC.

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Sample Letter from U.S. Veterans Administration to demonstrate and document that a disability is permanent.

This is needed to issue a Disabled Veteran Senior Resident Lifetime License.

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PFBC-G-1, Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Application

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Completed Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Permit

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Charter Boat/Fishing Guide Renewal Application

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Regulations

§ 51.31. Responsibility of issuing agents.

(a) Issuing agents are responsible to ensure that the fishing license is fully completed. The applicant shall make sure the information

entered on the license form is correct, and shall sign his own name or place his mark in the place indicated on the reverse of the

license certificate.

(b) Issuing agents shall verify the eligibility of the applicant for the class of license indicated on the license in accordance with §

51.32 (relating to resident and nonresident licenses).

(c) The issuing agent shall transfer the information provided by the applicant to the license certificate, assuring that the information

can be easily read. Information on the license certificate shall agree with the information provided and be typed or printed in ink.

(d) Agents shall use standard abbreviations supplied by the Commission for the color of eyes.

(e) Each license shall bear the account number of the issuing agent and the signature or initials of the person issuing the license.

(f) Issuing agents shall issue licenses in numerical sequence.

(g) Issuing agents shall provide a Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws with each license issued. Issuing agents also shall

provide a copy of the summary book to any holder of a Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License who requests one. Failure to comply

with this subsection will be grounds for recall of the issuing agency as provided in section 2711 of the code (relating to issuing

agents). Issuing agents are encouraged to provide a copy of the summary book, if adequate numbers are available, to other individuals

who request one.

(h) Issuing agents are responsible to ensure that when someone buys a license as a gift for another person, the person buying the

license signs his name on the reverse of the agent’s copy of the license and indicates that the license was purchased as a gift. The

recipient of the gift license shall sign his name on the original of the license.

§ 51.32. Resident and nonresident licenses.

(a) Only bona fide residents of this Commonwealth who establish their resident status by producing a Pennsylvania motor vehicle

driver’s license or other positive means of identification are entitled to obtain one of the various forms of a resident fishing license.

(1) Other positive means of identification for establishing bona fide residence in this Commonwealth include proof of payment of

Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax as a resident of this Commonwealth; proof of payment of earned income, personal income tax or

per capita taxes showing residence in a Pennsylvania municipality; current Pennsylvania firearms permit; Pennsylvania voter

registration card; Pennsylvania nondriver identification card; or a signed affidavit of Pennsylvania residency on the form prescribed by

the Commission.

(2) For purposes of this subsection, a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth is a permanent resident who has a fixed intent to

return to this Commonwealth when he leaves it and maintains a permanent place of abode here. A person may not be a bona fide

resident of this Commonwealth for this purpose while claiming residence in another state for any purpose.

(b) Military personnel who are stationed in this Commonwealth under permanent change of station orders (PCS) for a duration of 6

months or more may qualify as bona fide residents for the purpose of obtaining resident fishing licenses regardless of the fact they

may maintain a legal domicile in another state as authorized by the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (50 U.S.C.A. App. § § 501—

596). Military personnel who are domiciled in this Commonwealth but who are stationed in another state or country qualify as bona

fide residents of this Commonwealth for fishing license purposes so long as they do not become domiciles of another state.

(c) A person who does not qualify as a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth under subsection (a) or (b) is considered a

nonresident for purposes of obtaining a fishing license.

(d) A resident fishing license will remain valid for the year or years for which it is issued regardless of whether the holder is no

longer a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth.

§ 51.33. Effective dates of licenses and permits.

Fishing licenses and related permits are valid for the year printed on the license certificate or permit, and the month of December of

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the preceding year, except for 1-day and tourist licenses that are valid for the dates specified on the license certificate.

§ 51.34. Stamps and permits.

(a) The Commission may require licensees to possess stamps or permits to fish for certain species or in certain bodies of water.

(b) Individuals who purchase the stamp or permit to fish for the specified species or in designated bodies of water shall permanently

affix the stamp or permit to their license certificate, sign their names (or in the instance of small stamps or permits, their initials) in ink

across the face of the stamp or permit and display the stamped or permitted license certificate when fishing for the specified species or

on the designated body of water. The buyer is not required to affix the stamp or permit on the license certificate until he actually

engages in the stamped or permitted activity.

(c) Issuing agents shall make stamps and permits available to individuals purchasing them as collectibles. The buyer does not have to

sign the stamp or permit.

§ 51.36. Lost license certificates.

(a) An issuing agent shall replace a lost license regardless of where the licensee purchased the original license.

(b) If a licensee seeks to purchase a replacement license at the agency where he bought the original license, the licensee shall present

the original license number and complete the form provided by the Commission relating to the lost license certificate. If the original

license number is not known, the form shall be notarized.

(c) If a licensee seeks to purchase a replacement license at an agency other than the agency where he bought the original license, the

licensee shall complete the form provided by the Commission relating to the lost license certificate and have it notarized.

(d) The issuing agent shall write the word ‘‘DUPLICATE’’ and the original number, if known, across the face of the replacement

license certificate.

(e) The issuing agent shall attach to the monthly report the form relating to the lost license certificate, any voided license certificate

and the original and duplicate of the license certificate. The issuing agent shall record the certificate number in the body of the report.

(f) If the original license was sold through the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS) and the licensee seeks to purchase

a replacement license, the licensee shall present the original license number or licensee’s PALS customer identification number to the

issuing agent, and the issuing agent shall issue a replacement license, including associated permits, through the PALS.

§ 51.37. Application and prerequisites for becoming an issuing agent for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service

(PALS).

(a) A person, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation may apply to become an issuing agent of the Commission for the

purpose of selling fishing licenses and permits through the PALS.

(1) An applicant seeking to become an issuing agent shall complete and submit to the Commission an application on the form

prescribed by the Commission and pay a one-time, nonrefundable fee of $150.

(2) Applications shall be accompanied by a bond in favor of the Commission, or other security in a form satisfactory to the

Commission, in a minimum amount specified by the Executive Director or designee.

(3) A person, sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation that is an agent of the Commission for the sale of paper licenses may

sell licenses through PALS without making a new application under this subsection.

(b) An entity accepted by the Commission to act as an issuing agent shall perform in the following manner and meet the following

prerequisites:

(1) An issuing agent, including county treasurers, may not appoint subagents to issue fishing licenses or permits.

(2) Issuing agents shall enter into a Fishing License Issuing Agent Agreement with the Commission that covers the issuance of

fishing licenses and permits and the electronic transfer of funds through the PALS.

(3) Issuing agents shall maintain a bond in favor of the Commission, or other security in a form satisfactory to the Commission, in a

minimum amount specified by the Commission for each location where licenses and permits are issued.

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(4) Issuing agents shall maintain an account in a Federally insured financial institution organized under the authority of the

Commonwealth or the United States. This bank account must be able to accept electronic funds transfers. Issuing agents shall provide

the Commission with account information upon the request of the Commission.

§ 51.38. Operation of the issuing agent for the Pennsylvania Automated Licensing Service (PALS).

(a) Sale of licenses.

(1) Issuing agents shall collect the required customer information, including Social Security numbers, at the time of purchase and

ensure that the fishing license is accurate, correct and fully completed. The applicant shall verify the information provided to the

issuing agent and entered into the PALS is accurate and correct and sign his own name or place his mark in the place indicated on the

face of the license certificate. A license is not valid unless it is signed by the applicant. If an applicant indicates to the issuing agent

that he does not have a Social Security number, the issuing agent shall ask the applicant to complete an affidavit on the form

prescribed by the Commission certifying under penalty of law that the applicant does not have a Social Security number and the

reason therefor. Upon completion and execution of the form by the applicant, the issuing agent may issue the license to the applicant.

Issuing agents shall deny the issuance of a license to an applicant who fails to provide his Social Security number or who fails to sign

an affidavit as required by this paragraph. Issuing agents shall retain the affidavits and submit them to the Commission at least once a

month or in another manner prescribed by the Commission.

(2) Issuing agents shall verify the eligibility of the applicant for the class of license indicated on the license in accordance with §

51.32 (relating to resident and nonresident licenses). If an applicant for a resident license indicates that he is unable to establish that he

is a resident of this Commonwealth by any of the means identified in § 51.32 other than by signing an affidavit of Pennsylvania

residency, the issuing agent shall ask the applicant to complete the form prescribed by the Commission certifying under penalty of law

that the applicant is a bona fide resident of this Commonwealth. Issuing agents shall deny the issuance of a resident license to an

applicant who fails to establish his residency by signing the form or as otherwise provided in § 51.32. Issuing agents shall retain the

affidavits of Pennsylvania residency and submit them to the Commission at least once a month or in another manner prescribed by the

Commission.

(3) Issuing agents shall transfer the information provided by the applicant to the PALS and ensure that the PALS is otherwise

operational and prints the license certificate legibly. Issuing agents may not provide a customer with more than one copy of a license

certificate issued under PALS.

(4) Issuing agents shall provide a Summary of Fishing Regulations and Laws with each license issued. Issuing agents also shall

provide a copy of the summary book to any holder of a Senior Resident Lifetime Fishing License who requests one. Issuing agents are

encouraged to provide a copy of the summary book, if adequate numbers are available, to other individuals who request one.

(5) Issuing agents shall make available licenses and permits for sale to the public in strict accordance with all policies, instructions,

rules and regulations of the Commission.

(6) Issuing agents and their employees may not provide false or misleading information on a license. The date reported on a license

sold shall be the date of the actual sale.

(7) Issuing agents shall keep customer information confidential and not use, release or permit the use of this information for any

purpose not specifically authorized by the Commission or applicable law.

(8) Issuing agents shall return all original voided licenses to the Commission within 15 days of their issuance. Issuing agents shall

pay the license fees for voided licenses that are not returned to the Commission within 15 days of issuance.

(9) Issuing agents shall return all documents designated by the Commission within the time frame specified by the Commission.

(10) Issuing agents shall maintain, as instructed by the Commission, displays, notices or other informational materials relating to

licenses and permits provided by the Commission, distribute to customers and fishing guides other compliance or educational

materials provided by the Commission and promote and market new products or privileges as required by the Commission.

(11) Issuing agents shall sell licenses and permits only at the business location specified in their application or approved by the

Commission and at a place on the premises accessible to the public.

(12) Issuing agents may not offer or provide licenses or permits free of charge or for any fee not authorized by section 2715 of the

code (relating to license, permit and issuing agent fees).

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(13) Issuing agents shall redeem a license or permit voucher regardless of where the voucher was purchased.

(b) PALS equipment.

(1) Issuing agents shall ensure proper use of the PALS equipment and follow the PALS operating manual and subsequent

amendments and revisions thereto.

(2) An issuing agent may not borrow, lend or otherwise transfer PALS equipment or supplies to another agent without the prior

written consent of the Commission.

(3) Issuing agents shall safeguard PALS equipment and supplies from unauthorized, wasteful, inappropriate or fraudulent use.

Issuing agents shall place the equipment and supplies in a secure location. Issuing agents shall use license paper stock only for

purposes of printing licenses, permits, reports and receipts. Issuing agents shall promptly notify the Commission or its designee of

equipment malfunction. PALS equipment and supplies are not transferable to other locations without the prior written consent of the

Commission. Issuing agents shall return the defective equipment immediately to the repair center identified by the Commission.

(4) Issuing agents shall notify the Commission by telephone within 48 hours and submit a written report within 10 days after any

fire, theft or natural disaster affecting PALS equipment and supplies or records.

(5) Issuing agents shall be responsible for the PALS equipment and the supplies relating to the issuance of licenses and permits,

except for events beyond their control, and they shall assume financial responsibility for any damage to the PALS equipment resulting

from negligence, malicious activity, abandonment, failure to return upon request of the Commission or improper electrical service to

the equipment.

(6) Issuing agents shall carry appropriate insurance covering PALS equipment and supplies in an amount determined by the

Commission. Issuing agents shall provide proof of insurance coverage upon the request of the Commission.

(c) Access and auditing.

(1) Issuing agents, their employees and subcontractors shall allow the Commission or other authorized representatives access to

periodically inspect, review or audit PALS associated records, reports, canceled checks and similar material pertaining to PALS.

Issuing agents shall maintain these records for 5 years.

(2) Issuing agents shall allow the Commission access to all materials and equipment related to the PALS operations. Issuing agents

shall allow access to the Commission to make inspections during reasonable business hours, with or without notice to the issuing

agent, to determine whether the issuing agent is in compliance with this section.

(d) Financial provisions.

(1) Issuing agents shall deposit the money received from the sale of licenses and permits in a designated bank account less the

amount retained as an issuing agent fee under section 2715 of the code.

(2) Issuing agents shall have sufficient funds available in the designated bank account at the time of the electronic funds transfers.

Upon notification of insufficient funds for payment to the Commission, the Commission may immediately and without notice suspend

an issuing agent’s authority to issue licenses and permits, may assess an administrative fee in accordance with section 502 of the code

(relating to collection fee for uncollectible checks) and may require the issuing agent to increase the amount of the bond or other

security or to provide adequate bank account overdraft protection.

(3) Issuing agents shall provide written notification on the form prescribed by the Commission at least 15 days prior to changing

banks, account numbers, ownership status, business status or other information used by the Commission or its designee for the

purpose of collecting moneys owed by the issuing agent.

(e) Suspension or recall of agency.

(1) The Commission may suspend the issuing agency of any agent that no longer meets the Commission’s criteria for acceptance for

participation in PALS until the agent becomes compliant.

(2) The Commission may recall the issuing agency of any agent that violates the requirements of this section.

agent handbook for issuing pennsylvania fishing licenses ... · f) license year 5 g) customer...

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