Response surface methodology was used to optimize process parameters for the extraction of brown pigment from chestnut shell based on extraction rate. A regression model equation was fitted. The result showed that the optimum extraction condition was, the ratio of material to liquid 1∶30, extraction temperature 73 ℃, concentration of ethanol 40% and extraction time 2.45 h. The extraction rate of brown pigment from chestnut shell was 6.55%. The regression model had excellent fitting, can be used to the actual operation.