Yes, keeping roadkill in Indiana is legal under specific conditions.
Indiana law permits the salvage of certain roadkill species, provided the animal is not a protected or endangered species and is reported to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) within 24 hours. The DNR’s 2024 Wildlife Damage Management Guidelines clarify that deer, squirrels, rabbits, and other non-protected species may be retained for personal use, including consumption or taxidermy, if the carcass is reported and handled in compliance with state sanitation standards. Local health departments enforce Indiana’s Food Code, which requires proper refrigeration or processing within 48 hours of retrieval to mitigate health risks. Failure to report or improper handling may result in misdemeanor charges under IC 14-22-34-12.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Indiana
- Reporting Requirement: The carcass must be reported to the Indiana DNR within 24 hours of discovery via the DNR’s online reporting portal or by calling 1-800-TIP-IDNR. Non-reporting may lead to penalties under wildlife conservation statutes.
- Species Restrictions: Only non-protected species (e.g., white-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums) may be kept. Endangered or protected species, such as Indiana bats or bobcats, are strictly off-limits under IC 14-22-34-5.
- Handling and Processing: Carcasses must be refrigerated at ≤40°F (4°C) or processed within 48 hours to comply with Indiana’s Food Code (410 IAC 7-24). Improper storage risks health violations enforced by local health departments.