Aquaculture in Connecticut

Aquaculture is defined in the Connecticut General Statutes (Sec. 22-11c.) as “the controlled rearing, cultivation and harvest of aquatic plants and animals in land-based and marine-based culture systems, tanks, containers, impoundments, floating or submerged nets or pens and ponds.” Aquaculture is governed by the Connecticut General Statutes, and is subject to other municipal, state and federal regulations.

Guide to Marine Aquaculture Permitting in Connecticut
This guide was developed to assist individuals navigating the regulatory process for marine aquaculture.

Joint Agency Application to Conduct Marine Aquaculture in Connecticut
All aquaculture gear must be permitted through the application process before any gear can be placed in the water. The permitting process is lengthy and can take over one year.
oyster cage

Oyster cages

Kelp farmers

Sugar kelp harvest

Fish aquaculture

Fish aquaculture operation

Steps to establishing an aquaculture operation:

  • Site Selection & Designation - Use the Aquaculture Mapping Atlas for site selection
  • Use of Aquaculture Organisms
  • Planting & Cultivation
  • Production
  • Handling, Harvest & Sale

Matthew.Bartell@ct.gov assists applicants through the aquaculture permitting process. 

Steps to aquaculture guide

Aquaculture Site Selection and Designation Overview