The State Board of Stock Inspection Commissioners, part of the Colorado Department of Agriculture, will increase brand inspection fees starting October 1, 2025. The five-year brand assessment fee is also set to rise beginning in January 2027. These changes are intended to address financial challenges faced by the Brand Inspection Division, which operates solely on user fees and does not receive state funding.
Brand inspection and assessment rates for livestock owners in Colorado have not changed since 2016. Since then, the division has experienced increased costs and inflationary pressures, leading to a projected program deficit that could reach $3 million. To help manage this shortfall, the division has implemented cost-saving measures and sought ways to improve efficiency.
“Brand inspection is vital to Colorado’s $3 billion livestock industry and plays a critical role in ensuring its integrity and economic viability by protecting against loss and theft,” said Brand Commissioner Todd Inglee. “These necessary fee adjustments will help the Brand Inspection Division remain on solid financial footing and provide the livestock industry the needed loss protection services we offer.”
Despite these increases, Colorado’s brand inspection fees are expected to stay below those charged by neighboring states. Additional details about the new fees can be found at ag.colorado.gov/brands/brands-fee-and-assessment.
The process for determining these adjustments included a rulemaking hearing, outreach to industry partners, and meetings with livestock producers throughout Colorado to gather feedback.
For further information, visit ag.colorado.gov/brands or contact the Brand Inspection Division at 303-869-9160.
