Who removes a dead deer depends on where it is: on a road it is usually the state or county, while on your property it is usually your responsibility. A dead deer is heavy and can carry disease, so removal is not a casual DIY job. Here is what to do.
- On a public road, call the state DOT or county.
- On your property, removal is usually your responsibility.
- A dead deer can carry disease, so use gloves and avoid contact.
- Burial or landfill disposal are the common legal options.
On a Public Road
If the deer is on a public road or right-of-way, call your state’s department of transportation or the county road department. They handle roadkill removal on public roads. In many areas you can also report it to the non-emergency police line, and they will route it.
Do not move the deer yourself on a public road. It is heavy, and moving it into traffic is dangerous.
On Your Property
If the deer is on your property, removal is usually your responsibility. Your options are burial, landfill disposal, or hiring a wildlife removal service.
Burial. Bury the deer deep enough that scavengers cannot reach it, away from water sources and utilities.
Landfill. Many landfills accept dead animals, but call ahead to confirm and check the rules.
Hire a service. Wildlife removal and dead animal pickup services will remove and dispose of the deer for a fee.
Health and Safety
A dead deer can carry disease, and it attracts scavengers. Take these precautions:
Wear gloves and avoid contact. Do not touch the deer with bare hands, and do not allow pets near it.
Do not eat a roadkill deer. A deer that died of unknown causes may be unsafe to eat, and many states prohibit removing roadkill without a permit.
Check state rules. Some states require a permit to salvage roadkill deer, and some prohibit it entirely.
What It Costs
Dead deer removal costs vary by location and whether you hire a service. Burial is the lowest cost option if you can do it yourself, while a removal service is the most convenient. Check with local services for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your state’s department of transportation or the county road department. You can also report it to the non-emergency police line.
Usually you do, either by burial, landfill disposal, or hiring a wildlife removal service. It is your responsibility on private property.
Yes, if local rules allow. Bury it deep enough that scavengers cannot reach it, away from water sources and utilities.
It can carry disease and attracts scavengers. Wear gloves, avoid contact, and keep pets away.
Many states require a permit to salvage roadkill deer, and some prohibit it. Check your state rules before taking one.
