Most states have brand laws.
These systems require the registration of brands with county or state officials to avoid duplication of brands or brands that are confusingly alike. Brand laws also specify where on the horse, cow or other livestock the brands can be placed. Finally, brand laws frequently provide that sale of any branded animal must be accompanied by a written bill of sale. In addition, brand laws often establish a system of brand inspections when livestock are sold at public auction, imported into a state or moved intra-state. Brand inspectors are commissioned to examine livestock to search for stolen animals.