Yes, keeping roadkill in New Hampshire is generally permitted under specific conditions outlined by state wildlife statutes. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFGD) permits the salvage of certain species, provided the animal is reported within 24 hours and not listed as endangered or protected. This aligns with the 2024 amendments to RSA 214:25, which expanded salvage rights for non-threatened species while tightening reporting protocols to curb illegal trafficking.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in New Hampshire
- Species Eligibility: Only deer, moose, bear, turkey, and select furbearers (e.g., raccoon, opossum) may be salvaged. Endangered species (e.g., lynx) or migratory birds are strictly prohibited under RSA 212-A and federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
- Reporting Requirements: The finder must notify NHFGD within 24 hours via the online salvage portal or by contacting a local conservation officer. Failure to report risks misdemeanor charges under RSA 214:26, punishable by fines up to $1,200.
- Possession Limits: Salvaged animals may not be sold or bartered; personal use only. The NHFGD’s 2026 draft guidelines further restrict carcass retention to 30 days unless processed for taxidermy or consumption, with mandatory inspection by a licensed meat processor for edible species.
Local jurisdictions may impose additional ordinances, particularly in municipalities with active wildlife management zones. Always cross-reference NHFGD’s Salvage Permit FAQ for updates, as 2026 compliance shifts may introduce stricter tagging requirements for large game.