Yes, South Carolina allows the salvage of certain roadkill under strict wildlife and transportation regulations. The state permits the possession of dead wildlife killed by vehicles, provided the animal is reported to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) within 24 hours and salvage is conducted in compliance with state and federal laws.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in South Carolina
- Mandatory Reporting: Dead wildlife must be reported to SCDNR via their online portal or hotline within 24 hours of discovery to avoid penalties under S.C. Code Regs. 127-120.1.
- Permitted Species: Only non-protected species (e.g., deer, raccoons, opossums) may be salvaged; protected species (e.g., eagles, bears) require special permits and are prohibited for personal use.
- Transportation Restrictions: Salvaged animals must be transported in a sealed, leak-proof container to prevent disease spread, per SCDNR’s 2024 Wildlife Health Protocol.
Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions; consult county health departments for waste disposal rules. The 2026 SCDNR Wildlife Management Plan updates reporting requirements, emphasizing digital submissions to streamline compliance. Failure to adhere risks misdemeanor charges under S.C. Code § 50-11-170.