Section 79.5. Snapping turtle permits

(a) The Commission finds, under section 2904 of the code (relating to permits for protection and management of particular fish), that it is necessary for the proper protection and management of the common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) that persons who hunt, take, catch or kill this species for the purpose of sale, barter or trade have an annual permit for the activity. Application for a permit must be made on a form prescribed by the Commission and must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. Permits may be obtained by applying to: Natural Diversity Section Chief, Division of Environmental Services, 450 Robinson Lane, Bellefonte, Pennsylvania 16823-9616. The fee for residents is $50 per year; the fee for nonresidents is $100 per year. The denial of a permit under this section is appealable in the manner provided by Chapter 51, Subchapter E (relating to permit procedures).

(b) It is unlawful to hunt, take, catch, kill or possess the common snapping turtle for purposes of sale, barter or trade without first procuring the required permit. The required permit shall be in possession of the permittee at all times while hunting. Permittees shall comply with the terms and conditions of the permit and furnish the reports required thereby. It is unlawful to alter, borrow, lend or transfer a permit under this section.

(c) It is unlawful to sell, barter, trade or offer for sale a common snapping turtle, dead or alive, in whole or in parts, taken from lands or waters of this Commonwealth without first procuring the permit required under this section.

Notation

Authority

The provisions of this § 79.5 adopted under the Fish and Boat Code, 30 Pa.C.S. § § 2102 and 2904.