2009 California Fish and Game Code - Section 5000-5002 :: Article 1. Desert Tortoises

5000.  It is unlawful to sell, purchase, harm, take, possess, or
transport any tortoise (Gopherus) or parts thereof, or to shoot any
projectile at a tortoise (Gopherus). This section does not apply to
the taking of any tortoise when authorized by the department.

5001.  The provisions of Section 5000 do not prohibit the possession
of any tortoise (Gopherus) when the owner can demonstrate that such
tortoise was legally acquired and possessed before the effective date
of this section. The owner of a tortoise which may be possessed
under this section shall mark or otherwise identify such tortoise to
the satisfaction of the department, and shall not transfer such
tortoise to any other person without prior approval of the
department.

5002.  The department may issue permits, subject to such terms and
conditions as the commission may prescribe, authorizing the
possession of any tortoise (Gopherus) or any part or product thereof
by an educational or scientific institution or a public zoological
garden.