Yes, keeping roadkill in Ireland is legally permissible under strict conditions, primarily governed by the Wildlife Acts 1976–2023 and the Road Traffic Act 1961. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) permits retention only if the animal is legally obtained, reported, and not protected under Schedule 5 of the Wildlife Act. Recent 2026 amendments require mandatory reporting to local authorities within 48 hours to prevent zoonotic disease risks and enforce biosecurity protocols.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Ireland
- Protected Species Prohibition: Under the Wildlife Acts, it is illegal to keep protected species (e.g., badgers, otters) even if roadkill. Only non-protected mammals like foxes or rabbits may be retained.
- Mandatory Reporting: The 2026 NPWS guidelines enforce electronic reporting via the Roadkill Ireland app or local Garda stations within 48 hours, with failure resulting in fines up to €5,000.
- Disposal Restrictions: Carcasses must be disposed of via licensed rendering plants or municipal waste services; burial is prohibited without NPWS approval to mitigate environmental contamination.
Failure to comply with these provisions constitutes an offense under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001, with potential prosecution for illegal possession or trade. Local authorities (e.g., County Councils) may also impose additional bylaws under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act 1964. Always verify species status with the NPWS before retention.