Yes, keeping roadkill in Poland is generally legal but strictly regulated under environmental and veterinary laws. The Animal Protection Act and Veterinary Inspection Act govern the collection, transport, and disposal of animal carcasses, with exceptions for certain species and purposes. Local authorities and the Polish General Veterinary Inspectorate enforce compliance, including recent 2026 updates to waste management protocols for animal byproducts.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Poland
- Species Restrictions: Only non-protected species (e.g., foxes, raccoon dogs) may be kept under the Act on the Protection of Animals (2023 amendments). Protected species (e.g., badgers, deer) require permits from the Regional Director for Environmental Protection.
- Veterinary Compliance: Carcasses must undergo veterinary inspection (per Veterinary Inspection Act, Art. 42) to confirm absence of zoonotic diseases. Uninspected carcasses are classified as Category 3 animal byproducts, requiring disposal via licensed facilities.
- Transport & Storage: Collection must adhere to Regulation (EC) No 1069/2009 on animal byproducts. Vehicles and storage must prevent cross-contamination, with mandatory documentation for commercial use (e.g., taxidermy, educational purposes).