Regulated Organism and Soil Permits |
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Snails and Slugs
USDA requires permits for the importation of live snails and slugs under the authority of 7 CFR 330. USDA may permit the movement of snails or slugs for research purposes, educational demonstrations in classrooms, zoos or laboratories, or for retail sales in the hobby trade. Authorization depends on factors such as the risk of contaminants, the risk the species poses to the environment, and the level of containment at the destination site. A PPQ 526 permit is required if snails move across state lines or are imported into the United States.
- Apply for a Permit - Use PPQ Form 526, Application for permit to move live plant pests or noxious weeds.
Related Information
Live snails or slugs under permit must not be released into the environment.
Live snails cannot be imported into the United States for human consumption. Cooked, frozen, or processed snails may be imported for this purpose, however, and do not fall under the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s (APHIS) plant pest regulations.
USDA does not require permits for dead snails or slugs. Under 7 CFR 330.200, “biological specimens of plant pests, in preservative or dried, may be imported without further restriction under this part, but subject to inspection on arrival in the United States to confirm the nature of the material and freedom from risk of plant pest dissemination.” The packages cannot contain any plant material, soil, or other plant pests.
Snails in the genus Achatina (e.g., Achatina fulica, The Giant African Snail), aquatic snails in the family Ampullaridae (e.g., Pomacea canaliculata, channeled apple snail), and Decollate Snails (Rumina decollata) are specifically prohibited for interstate movement or importation into the United States.
The Giant African Snail poses a threat to both humans and plants. It is not only strictly prohibited from entering the United States but is confiscated when discovered. For more information related to this risk, see the USDA Pest Alert for Wisconsin and CDC Fact Sheet on Angiostrongylus Infections.
One species complex of the family Ampullaridae, Pomacea bridgesii may receive a permit for interstate movement for sales in the hobby trade because these snails are not known to be agricultural pests. They are primarily algae feeders and sometimes are beneficial for ponds and aquariums.
Information about Shipping Requirements and Red and White Labels
Frequently Asked Questions
View a list of the commonly asked questions and concerns associated with the application process for the importation of live snails and slugs.
Mollusk Decision Matrix
The Mollusk Decision Matrix
may be used as a guideline for educators when deciding which snails or slugs to bring into their classroom. The matrix lists nine snail and slug species, and the specific states in which the USDA will authorize movement. Please note that this matrix is subject to change at any time - as new evidence is presented - and species may be added or deleted from any given area. Contact your State Plant Regulatory Office or the Pest Permit Evaluation Unit when in doubt.