Is Keeping Roadkill Legal in Colombia After the 2026 Policy Reforms?

Yes, keeping roadkill in Colombia is legal under specific conditions, primarily governed by environmental and wildlife protection laws. The Ley 2111 de 2021 and Decreto 1076 de 2015 permit the salvage of deceased wildlife for personal use, but strict protocols apply to prevent illegal trade or exploitation.

Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Colombia

  • Wildlife Protection Framework: Under Ley 2111 de 2021, roadkill may be retained only if it is not a threatened or endangered species listed in Resolución 1912 de 2017 (e.g., jaguars, spectacled bears). Salvage requires immediate reporting to Corporaciones Autónomas Regionales (CARs) or ANLA to avoid penalties under Ley 1955 de 2019.
  • Sanitary and Public Health Compliance: The Instituto Nacional de Vigilancia de Medicamentos y Alimentos (INVIMA) mandates health inspections for any roadkill intended for consumption or use, per Decreto 1500 de 2007. Unauthorized handling risks fines up to 5,000 salarios mínimos mensuales legales vigentes (SMMLV).
  • Transport and Documentation: Vehicles transporting salvaged roadkill must carry a Guía de Movilización issued by the CAR, verifying legal acquisition. Failure to present this document during transit may result in confiscation under Decreto 1076 de 2015’s environmental enforcement protocols.

Local variations exist; for instance, CAR Cundinamarca (2023) has tightened oversight near Bogotá’s rural corridors, requiring GPS-tagged reporting within 24 hours. Non-compliance with these regional rules can trigger administrative sanctions under Ley 99 de 1993. Always verify species-specific restrictions with the nearest CAR office to ensure full legal compliance.