00:00If squirrels are tearing up your garden or chewing through your roof in California,
00:04your first thought might be to eliminate the problem. But before taking action, you need to
00:09know, is it actually legal to kill squirrels in California? The short answer is, it depends on
00:14the type of squirrel and where you are. California law makes a strict distinction between species.
00:20First, tree squirrels, like the native western gray squirrel, are classified as game mammals.
00:26Don't forget to subscribe to the channel and turn on the notification bell so you don't miss any new
00:31updates. Killing them requires a valid California hunting license during open season or a special
00:37damage permit from the Department of Fish and Wildlife if they're destroying your property.
00:42Second, ground squirrels and invasive fox squirrels. If these specific squirrels are causing actual
00:49damage to your crops or property, California Fish and Game Code allows property owners to trap
00:54or lethally control them at any time without a license. However, there are two critical legal
01:00catches. Relocation is illegal. Under California law, you cannot trap a squirrel and release it in
01:06a park or forest. Trapped animals must be humanely euthanized on-site or released on the same property.
01:13City Ordinances. Most urban areas strictly ban firearms, pellet guns, or poisons that put other
01:19wildlife at risk. Before taking action, identify the species, check your local city codes,
01:25or consult a licensed pest professional.
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