Connecticut Department of Agriculture – Hartford, CT

Connecticut Department of Agriculture

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (DoAg) is headquartered in the renovated State Office Building at 165 Capitol Avenue. This agency is dedicated to fostering a healthy economic, environmental, and social climate for agriculture in the state. Key responsibilities include the preservation of farmland, regulation of the shellfish and aquaculture industries, and the enforcement of animal health and welfare laws.

• Licensing and Permits: The department issues licenses for milk producers, livestock dealers, hemp growers, and animal importers. It also manages the Animal Population Control Program (APCP), which provides low-cost vaccination and sterilization vouchers.
• CT Grown: DoAg administers the CT Grown branding program, connecting consumers with local farmers’ markets, wineries, and agri-tourism destinations.
• Regulatory Services: Inspectors from this office ensure food safety compliance for dairy and produce, and investigate complaints regarding animal cruelty and neglect.

Visiting the State Office Building

The Department of Agriculture is located within a secure state facility. Visitors must enter through the main lobby, present valid photo identification, and pass through security screening including metal detectors. While the building itself is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the Department’s specific service windows typically operate from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Public parking is generally available at the 315 Buckingham Street Garage, which serves the State Office Building complex. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead or use the online ‘eLicense’ portal for faster service regarding renewals and applications.