Produce at California borders
We are traveling from Arizona to California with fresh produce. What items might we expect to have to throw away at the border?
Best Answer
This California government page discusses border inspections.
The page says:
WHAT ARE YOUR INSPECTORS LOOKING FOR?
Our inspectors check vehicles and commodities for compliance with California and federal plant quarantine regulations. They also check commodities to make sure they are free from exotic invasive species that may be hitchhiking with them. Although the primary focus is on plant materials (i.e., fruits, vegetables, nursery stock, hay, firewood, etc.), other items are also frequently inspected.
Briefly, you're advised to:
Have all plant material—including fruits, vegetables, plants, hay, and firewood—packed for easy access.
Ensure the driver knows what is in the vehicle and where it is packed.
Ensure the driver has keys or knows the combination for all door locks.
Ensure all doors (especially those of self-mover trucks and trailers) can be easily opened and closed.
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Why do they ask about produce at the California border?
They also check commodities to make sure they are free from exotic invasive species that may be hitchhiking with them. Although the primary focus is on plant materials (i.e., fruits, vegetables, nursery stock, hay, firewood, etc.), other items are also frequently inspected.Can you take produce into California?
As you would returning to the U.S., when you enter California, you must declare your plants. If it's citrus of any kind, say goodbye; they're not allowed into California. California also would like it a lot if you did not bring in pine, oak, fruit and nut trees.Why can you not bring fruit into California?
These threats, or exotic invasive species, can take the form of animals (wild livestock or domesticated pets), plants and plant products (fruits, vegetables, hay, firewood), insects, organisms, or microorganisms (such as disease-causing bacteria).Does California still have agricultural checkpoints?
At these stations, vehicles are inspected for commodities infested with invasive species. California established its first agricultural inspection stations in the early 1920s. Today there are 16 of these facilities located on the major highways entering the State (see interactive map).DRIVING Las Vegas Strip to California border inspection stations between California and Nevada USA
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