Don’t Bring Pests into California

Travelers entering California should avoid bringing food, plants or other natural materials with them as they can unintentionally spread destructive invasive plant pests and diseases. Travelers who fail to declare these items could face confiscation or fines, and ultimately threaten California’s environment, agriculture and economy.

While it might seem harmless to travel with produce, plants or other natural materials across state lines, the consequences can be severe. Invasive plant pests and diseases are sneaky hitchhikers and can cause irreversible impacts on California's agricultural industry, native plants, animals, natural landscapes and recreation areas.

To keep California free from invasive pests, agricultural officials urge travelers to take simple precautions, including:

• Avoid bringing plants, produce or other natural materials into California from another country or state.
• Research import rules before you travel with plants, produce or other natural materials.
• Declare plants or produce for inspection when returning to the United States.
• Clean outdoor gear, boots or vehicles before traveling.
• Report suspected agricultural smuggling to agriculture officials.
• Buy firewood where you’ll burn it.

California residents can also help prevent the spread of invasive species by:

• Becoming knowledgeable of invasive plant pest and disease quarantines in your area.
• Cooperating with local regulations, quarantines or agricultural officials – allow them access to your garden to place traps, inspect plants, conduct necessary treatments or remove potentially infested produce.
• Reporting signs of invasive pests or plant diseases to the California Department of Food and Agriculture at 1-800-491-1899 or your local county agricultural commissioner’s office.
• Prioritizing planting native plants in our yards and landscapes.
• Buy plants, produce, seeds or other natural materials from local, licensed nurseries and retailers. Source locally and responsibly. To find a licensed nursery near you, visit CDFA’s Directory of Licensed Nurseries.
• Please Don’t Pack a Pest (www.dontpackapest.com) when traveling or mailing/receiving packages.

To learn more about how to protect California against invasive species, visit cdfa.ca.gov/plant/