Yes, Portugal permits the collection of roadkill under strict environmental and public health regulations. The 2024 amendments to the Decreto-Lei n.º 124/2017 (Wildlife Protection Law) allow citizens to retain non-protected species for personal use, provided they report the incident to the Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas (ICNF) within 48 hours. However, endangered or protected species remain off-limits, and unauthorized handling risks fines up to €3,740. The 2026 ICNF enforcement guidelines further clarify reporting protocols via the Sistema Nacional de Informação de Fauna Selvagem (SNIFA).
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Portugal
- Species Eligibility: Only non-protected, non-endangered species (e.g., wild boar, foxes, rabbits) may be retained. The ICNF maintains an updated list of prohibited species under Portaria n.º 14/2024.
- Mandatory Reporting: All roadkill must be reported to ICNF through the SNIFA platform or local GNR (National Republican Guard) stations within 48 hours, including GPS coordinates and photographs.
- Handling Restrictions: Carcasses may not be sold, traded, or used for commercial purposes. Personal consumption is permitted only after veterinary inspection for zoonotic risks, as outlined in Despacho n.º 5/2025.