California Statewide Lead Ammo Ban Goes Into Effect July 1

by
posted on May 23, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
californialeadammoban_lead.jpg

Effective July 1, 2019, hunters in California are required to use certified non-lead ammunition when harvesting any game with a firearm.

In October 2013, AB 711 was signed into law, which applies to hunters on both public and private lands as well as hunters with depredation permits, requiring the California Fish and Game Commission to adopt regulations that phased-in the statute’s non-lead ammunition requirements by July 1, 2019.

According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), “All ammunition in a hunter’s possession may be inspected by wildlife officers. In some cases, if a wildlife officer suspects a hunter is in possession of lead ammunition and cannot prove otherwise in the field, he or she may seize a cartridge or bullet for further analysis. Hunters are encouraged to assist in confirming compliance by retaining and carrying in the field ammunition boxes or other packaging.”

Those who violate the lead ammunition ban will be fined up to $500 for a first offense, and no less than $1,000 (up to $5,000) for a second or subsequent offense. Violators also risk losing hunting privileges.

Hunters looking for lead-free ammo options can find a list of certified non-lead ammunition on the CDFW website, though other non-lead ammunition not listed, including handloads or boutique ammunition, can be used as long as it meets the state’s new lead-free requirements. All ammunition manufacturers must go through an application process to have ammo certified for legal use in the state.

For more information, visit wildlife.ca.gov/hunting/nonlead-ammunition.

Latest

001 DTSD Cover 01
001 DTSD Cover 01

Range Review: DoubleTap Ammunition's SnakeShot Defense Loads

New for 2025, these hybrid rounds from DoubleTap Ammunition launch hollow point bullets with birdshot pellets.

First Look: LTT Impact Long-Range Tikka Rifle

Langdon Tactical Technology (LTT) has announced the launch of the LTT Impact Long-Range Rifle, in collaboration with Tikka.

Hardware Review: GPO Centuri 4-16x44i Super Compact

U.S.-based German Precision Optics (GPO) has introduced a Super Compact line of its signature Centuri riflescope, boasting a generous magnification range and the features it takes to be successful at any distance. Check out Frank Melloni's review of it here.

New for 2025: Gritr Caliber-Specific Gun Cleaning Kits

Gritr’s new Gun Cleaning Kits keep firearms operating at their best with expertly crafted components designed for specific calibers—everything needed to clean, lubricate, and protect in a compact, travel-ready case.

Why Triggers Matter

Any rifle is only as good as its trigger. Here's why.

New for 2025: Muddy Outdoors Carnage Die Cut Ground Blind

The Die Cut ground blind from Muddy Outdoors is designed to keep hunters completely undetected in the field. Crafted with textured die-cut fabric, the brand’s all-new blind blends seamlessly and naturally into its environment, breaking up its exterior outline while concealing movement inside

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.