Exotic PetLaws

Guide

Exotic Pets A–Z: Legal Status by Species

Browse exotic pets by species and see a sortable 50-state map of where each animal is legal, permit-required, or banned.

Have a specific animal in mind? Each species page is a sortable 50-state map showing exactly where that pet is legal, permit-required, or banned — so you can check your state at a glance and see the statute behind it.

  • Legal No special permit to own.
  • Permit License or permit required.
  • Banned Illegal to own.
  • Unclear Varies by locality / sources conflict.

Species maps are published highest-demand first. Available and upcoming:

  • Ferrets — banned in California and (New York) City; legal in most states
  • Sugar gliders — banned or restricted in several states including California
  • Hedgehogs — illegal in California, Georgia, and a few others
  • Fennec foxes, capybaras, axolotls, servals and more

Coverage expands toward the full popular-species list. To see everything regulated in one place, use the state guides; for permit mechanics, see the permits hub.

Informational only — not legal advice. Exotic pet laws change and often vary by city or county, which can be stricter than state law. Always confirm with your state wildlife agency and local government before acquiring an animal. Last verified: 20 July 2026.

Now look up your own animal and state

Pick the animal and the state. You get the status, the statute or rule behind it, and the page that argues it — or a plain statement that we have not read that combination.

Ferret in California

Banned No lawful route to keep one

Governing law
"Family Mustelidae — All species (D)" under the Carnivora heading that itself names ferrets; no pet permit exists
Scope
Statewide
Notes
14 CCR § 671(c)(2)(K)5
Read the page this comes from