Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful antics, often capture our hearts. It’s no surprise that many animal lovers consider keeping these creatures as pets. However, before you envision a squirrelly companion in your home, it’s crucial to understand that the legality of owning a pet squirrel in the United States is far from uniform and often depends on where you live. For those wondering “What States Is It Illegal To Have A Pet Squirrel?”, the answer is more complex than a simple yes or no and involves navigating a patchwork of state and local regulations.
For many states, the answer is a straightforward yes, it is illegal. The majority of states and the District of Columbia prohibit keeping squirrels as pets. This broad ban reflects concerns about wildlife conservation, public health, and the practical challenges of caring for a wild animal in a domestic setting. Specifically, if you reside in any of the states not explicitly mentioned below as permitting squirrel ownership, you should assume it is illegal to keep a squirrel as a pet. This includes states with strict regulations on exotic animals and those that simply do not list squirrels among permitted species.
However, there are states where the door is open, at least partially, to pet squirrel ownership. A handful of states offer a more welcoming environment for those wishing to keep squirrels, sometimes without needing permits or licenses. These states, often located in the South and Midwest, include:
- Arkansas
- Idaho
- Louisiana
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
In these states, the regulations are more lenient, and owning a pet squirrel might be as simple as bringing one home, though it’s always wise to double-check local ordinances as cities or counties may have stricter rules.
For some other states, the legality hinges on specific conditions or species of squirrels. Nebraska, for example, allows pet squirrels, but with a critical stipulation: the squirrel must not have been captured from the wild. This implies the squirrel must be sourced from a legal breeder or come from out-of-state where ownership is legal. New Jersey presents a nuanced approach, specifically permitting red squirrels and flying squirrels as pets, while other species might be restricted. Similarly, South Dakota allows pet squirrels if they are purchased from a state where keeping them is legal, highlighting the importance of interstate commerce in pet squirrel ownership.
Massachusetts and Montana also carve out exceptions, allowing pet squirrels, but only if they are flying squirrels. This distinction suggests that regulations can be species-specific, with smaller, less common species sometimes facing fewer restrictions than larger, more common ones.
Finally, a group of states operates on a permit basis. If you live in Delaware, Indiana, Maine, Michigan, Mississippi, Rhode Island, or South Carolina, you might be able to legally own a pet squirrel by obtaining the necessary permit. The process for acquiring a permit varies by state and may involve demonstrating adequate housing, knowledge of squirrel care, and ensuring the animal does not pose a risk to native wildlife or public safety.
The situation in Florida remains somewhat ambiguous. While Florida is known for its relatively permissive stance on exotic animal ownership, squirrels are not explicitly mentioned in their regulations. This lack of clarity makes it uncertain whether squirrels can be legally kept as pets in Florida, requiring potential owners to seek specific clarification from state wildlife authorities.
Ensuring Your Pet Squirrel is Legal
Navigating the legal landscape of pet squirrel ownership requires diligence. Before acquiring a squirrel, take these crucial steps to ensure you are on the right side of the law:
- Consult Local and State Regulations: While this article provides a state-level overview, local municipalities, cities, and counties often have their own ordinances regarding exotic animals. Always check with your local animal control or wildlife agency for any specific restrictions in your area.
- Verify with Landlords or HOAs: Even if squirrel ownership is legal in your state and locality, your living situation might impose further restrictions. If you rent your home, check your lease agreement and with your landlord. Similarly, homeowners associations (HOAs) may have rules against certain types of pets.
- Source Your Squirrel Legally: If your state permits squirrel ownership, ensure you acquire your pet from a legal and ethical source. Reputable breeders specializing in domesticated squirrels are the best option. Avoid taking squirrels from the wild, as this is often illegal and detrimental to both local wildlife populations and the squirrel’s well-being. Wild squirrels are not adapted to living in captivity and can be very difficult to tame and care for.
Owning a pet squirrel can be a unique and rewarding experience for those in states where it is legal. However, understanding and respecting the legal framework is paramount. By researching your state and local laws thoroughly, you can ensure that your desire to keep a squirrel as a pet aligns with legal requirements and responsible animal ownership.
