Some states and counties have special regulations for fish farms. In Missouri permits are not required to raise or sell approved species of fish. An Approved Species List can be obtained from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Production of species not on the approved list must have special approval from the Director of the Missouri Department of Conservation. Other states may require permits to transport across state lines.
Some states have import regulations for live fish based on disease status.
Most states have discharge requirements for aquaculture and they are most often administered by the state Department of Natural Resources. All potential regulations and concerns should be addressed in the business plan. The business plan should include information about financial requirements and borrowing needs for the operation. Equipment purchases which could include aeration devices, seine reels, grading equipment, etc. Operating expenses which include feed, chemicals, fuel, fingerlings, other variable costs, and hired labor expenses.