Yes, keeping roadkill in Washington, D.C. is legal under specific conditions outlined by the D.C. Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) and the D.C. Department of Transportation (DDOT). The District permits the salvage of certain wildlife carcasses if reported within 24 hours and collected for non-commercial use, aligning with D.C. Municipal Regulations §24-1401 et seq. However, species protected under the D.C. Endangered Species Act or federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act remain off-limits. Recent 2026 compliance updates emphasize mandatory reporting via the DOEE’s Wildlife Salvage Portal to curb illegal trafficking.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Washington D.C.
- Reporting Requirement: All roadkill must be reported to DOEE within 24 hours via the Wildlife Salvage Portal, including species, location, and date of collection. Failure to report risks misdemeanor penalties under D.C. Code §8-101.01.
- Permitted Use: Salvaged carcasses may only be used for personal, non-commercial purposes (e.g., taxidermy, art). Commercial resale or donation is prohibited without a D.C. wildlife salvage permit.
- Prohibited Species: Black bears, migratory birds, and species listed under the D.C. Endangered Species Act (e.g., Indiana bats) cannot be retained. Violations trigger federal enforcement under the Lacey Act.