What items are restricted when making the move to California?

When you move to the Golden State, you need to remember some important details regarding the items that you can take there. Some laws in California restrict the import of certain items in the city by any mode. If someone tries to smuggle any of these items, they might face criminal charges. So, before you pack your belongings, check out this article and learn about the things restricted to take to California while moving there.

Moving in with animals into California

When you move to California you are allowed to bring pets. According to the California Department of Public Health, you can bring cats to the state without documentation. However, you will need rabies vaccination proof for dogs.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has prepared an extensive list of animals that cannot be imported into the state. Large exotic animals such as bears and tigers are illegal to keep domestically and small animals like ferrets can be a threat to local wildlife.

If you are importing livestock, you can freely bring them into the state. Livestock including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens are allowed during the move with a proper health certificate and detailed information about the owner.

In California, taking an illegal animal is a punishable offense and it will be 6 months in jail. Though people do not face criminal charges instead they will lose the custody of the animal or simply be asked to leave the state with their pet.

Importing Agricultural items

Taking some plants, fruits, and vegetables is illegal in California. The reason that the state imposes restrictions on bringing agricultural items from different states is to protect the Californian agriculture industry from potential pathogens. Bringing any type of citrus fruit into California is illegal because it has a major citrus industry. And pests and diseases can easily affect the quality of all types of citrus fruits.

The laws for importing fruits and vegetables may vary for their origin. You can check details on whether you can bring a specific edible crop from your current location.

Moving houseplants to California is legal and only applies if the plants are pathogen-free and homegrown. All these plants must be grown in packaged commercial sterile soil that is pathogen-free. However, citrus trees are still considered illegal even if they were grown in sterile soil.

Most people who were caught transporting these agricultural items across the state border will have to face charges for attempting illegal smuggle agricultural items to California. However, their items will be seized and they are allowed to go. In some cases, crossing the California border with illegal agriculture items is considered a felony, and a fine of $10,000 with time in prison will be imposed.

Moving in with Illegal Weapons

Moving with weapons is full of risks and if you are moving into California, you need to check the state laws. These laws will help you understand what weapons are legally allowed during the transition from another state. Importing Switchable knives, brass knuckles, billy clubs, hidden knives, and more is against the law. However, transporting stun guns, pepper sprays, and tasers are legal and they must conform to the state laws.

Weapons like firearms are legal to transport into the state as long as they fulfill the necessary documentation. However, the gun must be registered, sold, or transferred to a licensed dealer within 60 days of entry. There is a ban and restriction on high-capacity firearms. All the weapons must be stored and unloaded in a locked compartment within your vehicle.

There are different charges for importing an illegal weapon into California. These charges depend on the circumstances and items. In case of an honest mistake, customs officials will only confiscate the weapon and let the person go. In serious cases, arrests may be made and felony charges will be filed.

Transporting alcohol, marijuana, and related substances

According to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), transporting alcohol into the state for commercial and business purposes requires a license. If you are 21 or older you are permitted to bring alcoholic beveragesinto California. Also, a person 21 or above is legally allowed to possess and use marijuana within state and local laws. However, transporting marijuana across state lines is illegal.

Conclusion

This article listed all the restricted items when you move into California. If you are planning to move here and have some doubts about these items, you can connect with the experts at Van Lines Move. We can assist you throughout your moving journey and bring calm to your mind while relocating.

FAQs

Can I bring my pets when moving to California?

Yes, you can bring your pets to California. For cats, there is no need for any documentation while for dogs you need to carry proof of rabies vaccination. However, it is illegal to import exotic animals including bears, tigers, and even ferrets.

What are the charges and penalties for importing illegal agricultural items into California?

All the illegal items will be confiscated and the person may face fines and charges in severe cases. There is a felony charge of $10,000 and possible prison time.

What weapons are prohibited in California?

Weapons such as brass knuckles, billy clubs, and switchable knives are illegal in California. Firearms are only allowed if registered and transferred to a licensed dealer within 60 days of moving.