Yes, keeping roadkill is legal in California under specific conditions, but strict regulations govern its retrieval and possession to prevent wildlife trafficking and public health risks.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in California
- Permit Requirement: The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) mandates a free Wildlife Salvage Permit for individuals to legally collect roadkill, excluding federally protected species. Permits are issued under Fish and Game Code § 2539.5, with applications processed through CDFW’s online portal.
- Species Restrictions: Only non-protected mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians may be salvaged. Federally endangered species (e.g., California condor) or state-listed species (e.g., desert tortoise) are strictly off-limits, with violations punishable under California Endangered Species Act (CESA) § 2080.
- Time and Location Limits: Salvage must occur within 24 hours of notification to CDFW or local authorities (e.g., Caltrans, county sheriffs). Retrieval is prohibited in state parks or lands managed by the Department of Parks and Recreation without additional permits.
Local enforcement varies; counties like Los Angeles and San Diego have partnered with CDFW to deploy Roadkill Reporting Apps (e.g., CDFW’s Wildlife Incident Reporting System) to streamline compliance. Recent 2026 draft amendments to the Fish and Game Code propose stricter penalties for unauthorized salvage, including fines up to $5,000 for repeat offenses. Always verify species identification with CDFW before possession to avoid unintentional violations.