Don’t Bring Fruits and Vegetables into California
When traveling, please leave produce, plants and other natural materials behind to prevent the spread of invasive pests.
Travelers coming to California should avoid bringing produce, plants, soil, firewood or other natural materials with them, as these items can unintentionally spread destructive non-native pests and plant diseases, including invasive fruit flies. These expert hitchhikers can hide in fresh produce, making their way into the state unnoticed and threatening California’s agricultural industry, backyard gardens, native plants, animals, natural landscapes and recreation areas. Travelers who fail to declare these items may face confiscation and fines.
Do your part to keep California thriving:
Don’t pack a pest and follow these simple travel tips.
Please don’t bring:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Plants or cut flowers
- Soil or seeds
- Firewood
Do:
- Dispose of produce before traveling.
- Declare ALL agricultural items when entering California.
- Clean outdoor gear, boots and vehicles before you travel.
- Buy local firewood at your destination.
- Report suspected smuggling of agricultural products to agriculture officials.
California residents can also help prevent the spread of invasive species by:
- Learning more about invasive plant pest and disease quarantines and regulations in your area.
- Helping agricultural officials by allowing them access to your garden to place traps, inspect plants, conduct necessary treatments or remove potentially infested produce or plants.
- Reporting signs of invasive pests to the California Department of Food and Agriculture at 1-800-491-1899 or your local county agricultural commissioner’s office.
- Please Don’t Pack a Pest when traveling or shipping/receiving packages.
Together, we can help keep California free of invasive pests.
Learn more about invasive fruit flies and other destructive pests threatening California agriculture.
