Texas Deputy Game Warden Bond: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide provides information for insurance agents to help their customers obtain a Texas Deputy Game Warden bond (otherwise known as a Public Official bond).

At a Glance:

• Lowest Cost: $100 per year or $10 a month
• Bond Amount: $2,000
• Who Needs It: All deputy game wardens commissioned for office in Texas
• Purpose: To protect the public from financial harm if the deputy game warden commits fraud or otherwise abuses their position of power
• Who Regulates Deputy Game Wardens in Texas: The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Background

Texas Parks and Wildlife Code 11.020(d) requires all deputy game wardens commissioned for office to obtain a surety bond before being sworn in for their official term. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department enacted the surety bond requirement to ensure that deputy game wardens do not abuse their position of power. To provide financial security for enforcing such laws, deputy game wardens must purchase and maintain a surety bond to be eligible for their appointed position.

What Is the Purpose of the Texas Deputy Game Warden Bond?

Texas Parks and Wildlife Code 11.020(d) requires all deputy game wardens commissioned by the director of the Parks and Wildlife Department to purchase a surety bond as part of the process of being sworn into office. The bond ensures that restitution is available to any damaged party should the deputy game warden fail to abide by the regulations outlined in the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code. Specifically, the bond protects claimants if the deputy game warden commits fraud or otherwise abuses their position of power. In short, the bond is a type of insurance that protects the public if the deputy game warden violates the terms surrounding their commissioned position.

How Can an Insurance Agent Obtain a Texas Deputy Game Warden Bond?

BondExchange makes obtaining a Texas Deputy Game Warden bond easy. Simply log in to your account and use our keyword search to find the “deputy game warden” bond in our database. Don’t have a login? Enroll now and let us help you satisfy your customers’ needs. Our friendly underwriting staff is available by phone (800) 438-1162, email, or chat from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM EST to assist you.

At BondExchange, our 40 years of experience, leading technology, and access to markets ensures that we have the knowledge and resources to provide your clients with fast and friendly service whether obtaining quotes or issuing bonds.

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Is a Credit Check Required for the Texas Deputy Game Warden Bond?

No, a credit check is not required for the Texas Deputy Game Warden bond. Because the bond is considered relatively low risk, the same rate is offered to all deputy game wardens in Texas regardless of their credit history.

How Much Does the Texas Deputy Game Warden Bond Cost?

The Texas Deputy Game Warden bond costs just $100 per year or $10 per month.

How Does Texas Define “Deputy Game Warden”?

To paraphrase Texas Parks and Wildlife Code 11.020,  a deputy game warden is an enforcer of hunting and fishing laws, as well as an enforcer of the preservation and conservation of Texas marine animals and wildlife. 

It is important to note deputy game wardens should not be confused with general game wardens and game warden cadets as they are not required to obtain a surety bond.

BondExchange now offers monthly pay-as-you-go subscriptions for surety bonds. Your customers are able to purchase their bonds on a monthly basis and cancel them anytime. Learn more here.

How Do Deputy Game Warden Become Appointed in Texas?

Deputy game wardens must navigate several steps to obtain a commission for office by the director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Below are the general guidelines, but applicants should refer to the Department’s Game Warden webpage for further details on the process.

Commission Term – Texas deputy game wardens hold a commission term of four years.

Step 1 – Fulfill Financial Requirements

Deputy game wardens in Texas must purchase and maintain a $2,000 surety bond for the entirety of their commission term. In addition, a personal liability insurance policy of $100,000 is required for deputy game wardens.

Step 2 – Complete Commission Application

Applications for a commission as a deputy game warden are provided by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Before submitting a completed application, all applicants must meet the qualifications listed on the Department’s Requirements for Texas Game Warden webpage. To name a few, applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have completed a bachelor’s level degree from an accredited college or university.

What Are the Insurance Requirements for Deputy Game Wardens in Texas?

Deputy game wardens in Texas must purchase and maintain a $100,000 personal liability insurance policy for the entirety of their commission term.

How Do Deputy Game Wardens in Texas File Their Bonds?

Texas deputy game wardens should submit their completed bond forms, including the power of attorney when submitting their commission applications to the Parks and Wildlife Department (see the mailing address listed below).

          Game Warden Training Center
          4200 Smith School Rd
          Austin, TX 78744

The surety bond requires signatures from the surety company, as well as the deputy game warden. The surety company should include the following information on the bond form:

• The legal name of the individual buying the bond
• Surety company’s name 
• Date the bond is signed

What Can Texas Deputy Game Wardens Do to Avoid a Claim Against Their Surety Bond?

To avoid claims against their bonds, Texas deputy game wardens must follow all regulations regarding their commission position, including some of the most important issues below that tend to cause claims:

• Misrepresentation
• Negligence
• Misfeasance
• Malfeasance
• Fraud

What Other Insurance Products Can Agents Offer Deputy Game Wardens in Texas?

Texas requires commissioned deputy game wardens to purchase coverage for a $100,000 personal liability insurance policy. Bonds are our only business at BondExchange, so we do not issue any other types of insurance, but our agents often utilize brokers for this specific line of business. A list of brokers in this space can be found here.

How Can Insurance Agents Prospect for Deputy Game Warden Customers in Texas?

Unfortunately, Texas does not provide a public list of active deputy game wardens in the state. We suggest contacting the Parks and Wildlife Department Law Enforcement Offices to obtain a list of commissioned deputy game wardens. Contact BondExchange for additional marketing resources. Agents can also leverage our print-mail relationships for discounted mailing services.