Guides

Explainers and glossary for exotic pet ownership law.

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1. Are Axolotls Legal in California? (Statute, Permits & the 2025 Federal Rule)

   No. California restricts the entire genus Ambystoma as a detrimental species under 14 CCR 671, and no permit category allows keeping one as a pet. The exact clause, who can hold a permit, the penalties, and the 2025 federal salamander rule that also applies.

   24 July 2026 · 19 min read

2. Are Ferrets Legal in California? (Statute, Penalties & 2026 Petition Status)

   No. Ferrets are illegal to own as pets in California under Cal. Code Regs. tit. 14 § 671 — and no pet permit exists. The statute, the penalties, the pending 2025 legalization petition, and where ferrets are legal. Verified July 2026.

   Updated 24 July 2026 · 8 min read

3. Are Ferrets Legal in New York? Legal Statewide, Banned in All Five NYC Boroughs (2026)

   Ferrets are legal to own anywhere in New York State with no permit or license, and banned in all five New York City boroughs under Health Code 161.01(a)(4). Statute-cited, with the 1999 ban date and the 2015 Board of Health vote corrected.

   23 July 2026 · 14 min read

4. Are Hedgehogs Legal in California? (Statute, Penalties & the Detrimental Rule)

   No, hedgehogs are illegal to own as pets anywhere in California. They are a restricted detrimental species under 14 CCR 671 (Order Insectivora), no pet permit exists, and penalties fall under Fish and Game Code 2125. Verified against the regulation text.

   Updated 22 July 2026 · 11 min read

5. Are Sugar Gliders Legal in California? (Statute, Penalties & the Welfare Rule)

   No, sugar gliders are illegal to keep as pets in California. Every marsupial is a restricted species under 14 CCR 671, classified welfare (not detrimental), with no pet permit available. Statute, penalties, and where they are legal.

   Updated 22 July 2026 · 9 min read