Anyone picking wild edible mushrooms in Campania, including in the Cilento, needs an authorisation issued through a mushroom permit, according to InfoCilento.
The permit is personal and non-transferable, valid for five years across the regional territory and subject to annual validation, according to the Campania Region. Release requires passing an interview on recognising edible species, mycology and poisoning, under Regional Law No. 8 of 24 July 2007.
The ordinary daily limit is 3kg per person. Within that amount, pickers may not exceed 1kg in total of Amanita caesarea, known as ovolo buono, and Calocybe gambosa, known as prugnolo. The limit may be exceeded only when the harvest consists of a single clump of grown-together mushrooms.
Picking closed ovolo buono and specimens below the prescribed minimum sizes is prohibited. Rakes, hooks and other tools that damage the soil and mycelium are prohibited. Mushrooms must be carried in rigid, aerated containers; plastic bags are not suitable, according to InfoCilento and the Region.
Holders of rights over land may pick on their own land without quantitative limits and without authorisation, while still passing the qualifying interview and observing the other rules.
Violations can bring fines and confiscation of the mushrooms, with suspension of the permit for repeat offences, according to InfoCilento. The Region recommends having mushrooms checked by the ASL mycological inspectorates and going immediately to the emergency department if symptoms appear after eating them.
Practical offices, forms and payment procedures can differ by province or mountain community, and municipalities, protected areas and landowners can impose additional local bans or limits. Pickers should check current requirements with the competent body before going out.
