Vermont Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale Overview
Vermont regulates livestock through the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets. The state has an active agricultural community with a focus on dairy cattle, horses, and small ruminants. Vermont requires Coggins testing for equine transactions and has comprehensive import requirements. Vermont has historically strong small-farm advocacy and the regulatory framework reflects this tradition. A written bill of sale is standard for livestock transactions.
6%
Sales tax
No
Brand inspection
Required
Health certificate
Required
Coggins test
Vermont Livestock Transfer Requirements
Here's what you need to know for a smooth horse or livestock transaction in Vermont:
Important: Vermont Health Documentation
Vermont requires a current negative Coggins test for all equine change of ownership. Ensure your Coggins test is within the required timeframe before completing the sale. For interstate transport, both a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and negative Coggins are required.
What the Seller Must Provide
- Signed Bill of Sale: Complete bill of sale with animal description, sale price, and both parties' information
- Current Negative Coggins: EIA test within 12 months performed by an accredited veterinarian
- Registration Papers: Signed transfer section on breed registration certificate (if registered)
- Health Records: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, and veterinary records
- Disclosure of Known Issues: Any known health problems, lameness, vices, or behavioral issues
What the Buyer Should Obtain
- Signed Bill of Sale: Original copy with both signatures
- Coggins Test Certificate: Copy of the current negative Coggins report
- Registration Certificate: With signed transfer (if registered animal)
- Health Certificate: If transporting across state lines, CVI within 30 days
How to Fill Out a Vermont Horse Bill of Sale
Follow these steps to properly complete your Vermont horse or livestock bill of sale.
Enter Seller Information
Include the seller's full legal name, farm or ranch name (if applicable), Vermont mailing address, phone number, and email. If the seller is a licensed dealer or breeder, include the license or business registration number.
Enter Buyer Information
Include the buyer's full legal name, farm or ranch name, Vermont address, phone number, and email. The buyer's location determines which local tax rates apply to the transaction.
Describe the Animal
Provide a detailed description: species (horse, cattle, goat, etc.), breed, registered name and number (if applicable), sex, age or date of birth, color, height (in hands for horses), weight, and all identifying markings, brands, tattoos, or microchip numbers.
Document Health Status
Record the Coggins test date and result (for equines), health certificate number and date, vaccination history, and deworming schedule. Attach copies of all health documentation to the bill of sale.
State Sale Price and Terms
Enter the agreed purchase price in both numbers and words. Note the payment method and any installment terms. State whether the sale is as-is or includes warranties (soundness, breeding, vice-free, etc.). Disclose any known health issues or behavioral concerns.
Sign and Complete Documentation
Both buyer and seller sign and date the bill of sale. Print two copies. Transfer breed registration papers by signing the transfer section. Ensure Coggins and health certificates are current. Complete any required brand inspections before transport.
Vermont Brand Inspection Requirements
Vermont does not have a brand inspection program or state brand board. Livestock ownership is documented through bills of sale, breed registration papers, and standard identification methods. Vermont's dairy industry uses ear tags and electronic identification for cattle tracking.
Vermont Health & Veterinary Requirements
Vermont requires a negative Coggins test within 12 months for equine change of ownership and events. Interstate imports require a CVI issued within 30 days and negative Coggins. Vermont requires entry permits for livestock entering the state. The state has specific cattle requirements including tuberculosis testing and participates in New England regional disease surveillance. Vermont also monitors for Johne's disease in cattle.
Vermont Livestock Fees & Taxes
Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with a horse or livestock transaction in Vermont:
| Fee / Tax | Amount |
|---|---|
| Coggins Test | $25 - $50 |
| Health Certificate (CVI) | $30 - $70 |
| State Sales Tax | 6% (agricultural exemptions may apply) |
| Import Permit | No fee |
| Brand Inspection | Not required |
Sample Vermont Horse Bill of Sale
Below is a preview of our Vermont-specific horse bill of sale. Your customized document will include all fields required for Vermont livestock transactions.
STATE OF VERMONT
HORSE / LIVESTOCK BILL OF SALE
Equine & Livestock Transfer Document
SELLER:
Name: [Seller Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Vermont Address]
BUYER:
Name: [Buyer Name]
Farm/Ranch: [Farm Name]
Address: [Vermont Address]
ANIMAL DESCRIPTION
Species: [Species] Breed: [Breed]
Registered Name: [Name]
Reg. #: [Number] Sex: [Sex]
Coggins Date: [Date] Result: [Negative]
Sale Price: $[Amount]
Vermont Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale FAQ
Answers to common questions about Vermont horse and livestock bills of sale, health requirements, and transfer regulations.
Official Vermont Resources
Use these official state resources to verify requirements, check import regulations, and access government information for your Vermont livestock transaction.
Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
Livestock regulations and agricultural services
Vermont State Veterinarian
Animal health, Coggins testing, and import requirements
USDA APHIS — Veterinary Services
Federal animal health regulations and accredited veterinarians
USDA — Interstate Livestock Movement
Federal requirements for transporting livestock across state lines
Other Vermont Bill of Sale Templates
Need a different type of bill of sale for Vermont? We offer state-specific templates for every type of property transfer.
Vermont Vehicle Bill of Sale
Cars, trucks, and SUVs
Vermont Boat Bill of Sale
Boats, jet skis, and watercraft
Vermont Motorcycle Bill of Sale
Motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds
Vermont Trailer Bill of Sale
Utility, travel, and cargo trailers
Vermont Firearm Bill of Sale
Handguns, rifles, and shotguns
Vermont General Bill of Sale
Furniture, electronics, and personal property
Vermont ATV Bill of Sale
ATVs, UTVs, and off-road vehicles
Vermont Mobile Home Bill of Sale
Manufactured and mobile homes
Create Your Vermont Horse / Livestock Bill of Sale
Answer a few questions and download your Vermont-compliant document in minutes. Includes Coggins test and health certificate fields.
No account required. Free to create and preview.