Yes, keeping roadkill in Finland is generally permitted under strict conditions. The Finnish Wildlife Agency (Riista- ja kalatalouden tutkimuslaitos) and local game management associations regulate the practice to ensure ecological and public health compliance. Recent 2026 amendments to the Hunting Act (Jaktlagen) clarify ownership rights for non-protected species, provided proper reporting and handling protocols are followed.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Finland
- Species Eligibility: Only non-protected species (e.g., moose, roe deer, wild boar) may be kept, as listed in the Finnish Wildlife Act (Luonnonsuojelulaki). Protected species (e.g., lynx, bear) remain off-limits under all circumstances.
- Reporting Requirements: Roadkill must be reported to the local game management association (riistanhoitoyhdistys) within 24 hours via the national Riista-app or phone. Failure to report risks confiscation under the 2026 enforcement guidelines.
- Handling & Disposal: Carcasses must be processed within 48 hours to prevent spoilage. The Finnish Food Authority (Ruokavirasto) mandates refrigeration (≤4°C) or immediate freezing if not consumed. Improper disposal violates the Animal By-Products Regulation (EU 1069/2009), as transposed into Finnish law.
Additional Considerations:
- Transportation: A valid hunting permit or landowner consent is required to transport carcasses across municipal borders. Unauthorized transport may trigger penalties under the Traffic Act (Tieliikennelaki).
- Taxation: Income from selling or bartering roadkill meat must be declared under the Finnish Tax Administration’s elintarvikeverotus framework. Non-compliance risks audits by the Verohallinto.