UPDATE: The Commission has posted a Notice of Proposed Change regarding rattlesnakes. Per the notice, these changes will:
• Establish a legal framework allowing commercial exhibition of California native rattlesnakes.
• Create a permitting process for possession and exhibition, covering activities such as dog aversion training, film production, and safe‑handling courses.
• Define detailed permit application requirements and permittee responsibilities, including housing, care, record keeping, safe handling, and lawful acquisition.
• Address gaps in existing regulations, which currently do not authorize these forms of commercial exhibition for native species.
• Support public safety by promoting accurate rattlesnake‑related information and responsible commercial practices.
• Update related sections (Sections 43 and 703) to align permitting procedures, application requirements, inspections, and fees with the new regulatory structure.
Comment deadline: December 3, 2026. By email to FGC@fgc.ca.gov. Written comments to Fish and Game Commission, PO Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090.
Two hearings are scheduled: California Natural Resources Building, 715 P Street, Sacramento, California, on October 13-15, 2026, and East End Complex Auditorium, 1500 Capitol Ave., Sacramento, CA 95814, on December 15-16, 2026.
Read the draft regulation at https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/26-ca-rattlesnake-42.1-Reg-language.pdf.
Read the announcement at https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/26-ca-rattlesnakes-42.1.pdf.
The California Fish and Game Commission will discuss regulations on commercial use and possession of native rattlesnakes at its August 12-13 meeting. This would include rattlesnake-avoidance training for dogs (which is a popular course), educational outreach programs, as well as all other businesses and possession.
Read the announcement at https://usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/26-CA-rattlesnake-June-notice.pdf.
Meeting location: California Natural Resources Headquarters Building, 715 P Street, Second Floor, Sacramento, CA 95814. Virtual attendance should be available via Zoom (details will be provided later, once the meeting agenda is posted).
