Tennessee has a law that makes visitors do a double-take when they first hear about it: you can legally collect roadkill and take it home for dinner. This unusual piece of legislation has become a favorite conversation starter among locals, who love sharing the quirky details with anyone passing through the Volunteer State.
It’s not just a punchline – Tennessee’s roadkill law is officially on the books and surprisingly practical. Hunters, foragers, and curious foodies alike have embraced it as a symbol of resourcefulness, sparking everything from roadside jokes to actual recipes. Whether it’s a deer struck on a backroad or a wild turkey that didn’t make it across the highway, the law allows residents to salvage the meat, provided it’s reported to authorities.
It’s a law that perfectly captures Tennessee’s blend of practicality and personality. Just don’t be surprised if your dinner conversation takes a wild turn.
1. When the Law Actually Started
Back in 1998, Tennessee lawmakers decided to address something most states ignored completely. Roadkill was piling up along highways, and people were asking if they could salvage perfectly good meat going to waste…