Proof of Ownership
For more information, contact program staff.
Proof of Ownership Documentation
Your proof of ownership for cattle and horses may be established by presenting one of the following documents:
(a) An official livestock brand inspection certificate issued by the director.
(b) A duplicate certificate or certified copy of an original inspection document issued by the director.
(c) A self-inspection certificate (cattle only) signed by both the seller and the buyer. Additional proof of ownership must be provided to the buyer for all livestock bearing brands not recorded to the seller.
(d) An official brand inspection certificate issued by another inspection state or province.
(e) Registration papers on purebred horses.
(f) Registration papers on purebred cattle provided the brand is not recorded in this state.
(g) Bill of sale (horses only).
(h) Health certificates / papers issued by a non-brand state. Vaccination / test tags / markings must be verifiable and the animal must match the document.
The director will only accept original, official duplicate certificates, or certified copies. The Director will not accept carbon copies, faxed copies or photocopies. The name of the livestock owner must appear on the document.
Satisfactory proof of ownership must be provided to the Brand Inspector or Certified Veterinarian before an inspection certificate can be issued. Animals presented for inspection that bear brands not recorded to the person in possession must be accompanied by written proof of ownership that directly traces to the recorded owner of the brand. For assistance in identifying the recorded owner of a Washington brand, contact the Brand Registrar.