The Pennsylvania Premise
Identification Information Web site

The first step in implementing a national animal identification system (NAIS) is identifying and registering premises that are associated with the animal agricultural industry.

Definition of Premises

In terms of the NAIS, a premises is any geographically unique location associated with animal agriculture that would allow for the commingling or movement of animals or poultry or that is involved in commerce. Under this definition, farms, ranches, feed yards, auction barns, and livestock exhibitions and fair sites are all examples of premises.

Each State's or Tribe's animal health authority, working in conjunction with Federal officials, will determine a more precise definition of premises for areas under its purview. A "one-size-fits-all" definition of a premises is not always possible, even if everyone adheres to the same general principle of identifying the location of animals. Differences in production systems and methods from one region to another will need to be taken into account. For instance, livestock in Western States are commonly raised at least part of the year on open range and public grazing lands, while those in the Midwest are more typically raised on privately owned farms year 'round. The best way to address such issues is to rely on the expertise of the animal health officials at the local level. They know the producers and the type of production systems in their area.