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HomeFish and Game CodeDiv. 3Ch. 3Art. 3§ 2271 Aquatic Species Import Approval

§ 2271 Aquatic Species Import Approval

Fish and Game Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 2271 Aquatic Species Import Approval

This law requires written permission from the state department before you can bring live water plants or animals into the state, unless they are on an exempt list or you have a special permit.

Key Takeaways

  • •Live aquatic plants or animals need prior written approval to enter the state.
  • •An application is considered approved after 60 days if it isn’t denied.
  • •Mollusks, crustaceans, and certain ornamental species kept in closed systems are exempt.
  • •Registered aquaculturists are also exempt from this rule.

Example

A hobbyist wants to import a few tropical fish from another state to start a home aquarium.

The hobbyist must submit a written application to the department. If the department does not reject the application within 60 days, it is automatically approved. However, if the fish are a type that is exempt (like certain ornamental species kept in a closed tank), the hobbyist does not need approval at all.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 2271 Aquatic Species Import Approval

(a) No live aquatic plant or animal may be imported into this state without the prior written approval of the department pursuant to regulations adopted by the commission. A written application for the importation, submitted in conformance with the procedural requirements established by the commission, is deemed approved where it has not been denied within 60 days. (b) This section does not apply to the following plants or animals unless the plants or animals are or may be placed in waters of the state: (1) Mollusks. (2) Crustaceans. (3) Ornamental marine or freshwater plants and animals that are not utilized for human consumption or bait purposes and are maintained in closed systems for personal, pet industry, or hobby purposes. (c) The section does not apply to any live aquatic plant or animal imported by a registered aquaculturist. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1984, Ch. 85, Sec. 4. Effective April 19, 1984.)

Last verified: January 10, 2026

Key Terms

live aquatic plant or animalprior written approvalregistered aquaculturistclosed systems

Related Statutes

  • § 2270.5 Aquaculture Importation Exemption
  • § 2272 Live Aquatic Shipments Labeling
  • § 15600 Aquatic Species Import Permits
  • § 1003 Wildlife Transport Permit Rules
  • § 1120 Fish Hatchery Operations

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Fish and Game Code. Section 2271.
View Official Source