Yes, keeping roadkill is legal in South Africa under strict conditions, but ownership hinges on compliance with environmental and road safety regulations. The National Road Traffic Act (Act 93 of 1996) and provincial conservation laws govern retrieval, while the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004) restricts species protection status. Failure to adhere risks fines or confiscation under the 2026 amendments to the Biodiversity Act, which tighten enforcement on wildlife-derived materials.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in South Africa
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Species Protection Status: Only non-protected species (e.g., common antelope or porcupine) may be kept without a permit. Protected species (e.g., leopard or vulture) require a Section 20 permit from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), as per NEMBA (Act 10 of 2004). Unauthorized possession of protected roadkill constitutes an offense under Section 57 of the Act.
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Retrieval and Notification: The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) mandates immediate notification to local traffic authorities (e.g., SAPS or provincial traffic departments) upon discovery. Unclaimed carcasses may be retrieved for personal use, but documentation of the incident report is mandatory to avoid allegations of theft or poaching.
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Processing and Disposal: The Meat Safety Act (Act 40 of 2000) applies if the carcass is intended for human or animal consumption, requiring veterinary inspection and abattoir processing. Improper handling (e.g., butchering without certification) violates provincial health regulations, with penalties enforceable by the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).