Shellfish

Shellfishing Update! Shellfishing beds will open Sunday, November 23, 2025! Please make sure you purchase your shellfishing permit at Truro Town Hall or online.  

General Information

The Shellfish Department's primary function is to provide, protect, and nourish the shellfisheries in the Town of Truro. Main duties include:

• Purchasing and planting of shellfish stock for the public shellfish beds (there are no private shellfish beds in the Town of Truro)
• Protection of public shellfish beds from predators, including moon snails, green crabs, and starfish
• Patrol shellfish flats to enforce shellfish regulations (illegal taking of shellfish)
• Water quality testing of shellfish beds with the state Division of Marine Fisheries

Where to Purchase Shellfish Licenses

Shellfishing Licenses can be purchased online or in person at the Harbor Master Office located at Pamet Harbor (end of Depot Road), and at the Administration Counter at Truro Town Hall. Licenses are valid from November 1st to October 31st. Clamming is allowed year-round.

2025 Shellfish Fees for Licenses

• Resident Annual: $20
• Non-Resident Annual: $125
• Annual Senior (Resident 62 and older): Free
• 7 Day (One-Week) License: $35
• (New Non-Resident) Military Veteran Permit: $20

We accept Mastercard, Visa, Discover, and American Express. There is a convenience charge of 4.5% or $1.50, whichever is greater. You can also pay with an electronic check at a flat rate of 0.50%.