Livestock owners across Colorado will see an increase in brand inspection fees starting October 1, 2025, with the five-year brand assessment fee also set to rise in January 2027. The State Board of Stock Inspection Commissioners has approved these changes after a comprehensive rulemaking process that included extensive stakeholder engagement.

The Brand Inspection Division, which is solely funded by user fees and receives no state funding, is facing a projected program deficit of up to $3 million. This shortfall is attributed to rising operational costs, including significant increases in expenses for vehicles, personnel, and other overhead. The last time brand inspection fees were adjusted was in 2016, and assessment fees have not changed since 2017.

“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.”

In addition to raising fees, the division is actively working to reduce operating costs and increase efficiencies to lessen the impact of the deficit. The goal is to lower overall expenses during the 2027-2032 assessment period. Even with these new increases, Colorado’s brand inspection fees are expected to remain lower than those in neighboring states. Click here for more information.