California Trapping
License 2026
Complete guide to trapping licenses in California - resident and nonresident fees, trap check hours, regulated species, pelt reporting requirements, and bobcat or otter permit rules. California banned steel-jaw leghold traps and most body-gripping traps in 1998 via Proposition 4. Commercial trapping of furbearing mammals requires a Commercial Trapping License. Recreational furbearer trapping is effectively ended by Prop 4 restrictions.
California Trapping License Requirements
California requires a valid trapping license to trap furbearing animals. Review all requirements before setting traps.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Resident Fee | $31.00 |
| Nonresident Fee | - |
| Separate From Hunting License | Yes - separate purchase required |
| Trapper Education Required | Not required |
| Trap Check Requirement | Every 24 hours |
| Trap Tagging Required | Yes - name & address required |
| Pelt Reporting Required | Not required |
| Bobcat Permit Required | Yes - separate permit |
| Otter Permit Required | Not required |
| Trap Type Restrictions | Prop 4 (1998): steel-jaw leghold traps, padded jaw traps, and body-gripping traps (conibears) are banned. Only box traps, cage traps, and net traps are allowed for most applications. |
Trappable Species in California
The following furbearing species may be legally trapped in California with the appropriate license and during open seasons. Some species may require additional permits.