The second phase of a three-part phase-out of lead ammunition in California starts July 1, when hunters using shotguns will be required to use non-lead shot when taking upland game birds (except for doves, quails, snipes, and any game birds taken at licensed game-bird clubs) and resident small-game mammals, fur-bearing mammals, nongame mammals, nongame birds, and any wildlife for depredation purposes. Last year, lead ammunition was banned from state wildlife preserves and ecological areas. Starting on July 1, 2019, non-lead ammunition will be required when taking any wildlife with a firearm anywhere in California.
