Squirrels, with their bushy tails and playful antics, often capture our hearts. For some, this admiration extends to wanting to welcome a squirrel into their homes as a pet. However, before you envision a furry friend joining your family, it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape surrounding squirrel ownership. Unlike common pets such as cats and dogs, squirrels are considered exotic animals, and regulations vary significantly from state to state in the United States. So, if you’re wondering, “What States Is It Legal To Have A Pet Squirrel?”, this guide will provide you with the necessary information to navigate the legalities.
States Where Pet Squirrels Are Legal Without Permits
For those seeking the simplest path to squirrel ownership, certain states have more lenient laws. In these states, you can generally own a pet squirrel without needing to jump through hoops for permits or licenses. These states include:
- Arkansas
- Idaho
- Louisiana
- New Mexico
- Oklahoma
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
These states generally have no explicit statewide regulations prohibiting squirrel ownership, making it legal to keep them as pets. However, it’s important to note nuances even within these states. For example, Nebraska permits pet squirrels only if they were not captured from the wild. This distinction is critical as it encourages sourcing squirrels from breeders rather than removing them from their natural habitats.
Certain states also have specific squirrel species they deem legal to keep as pets. New Jersey law allows for the ownership of red squirrels and flying squirrels, catering to those interested in these particular types. Similarly, Massachusetts and Montana permit pet squirrels, but specifically flying squirrels, narrowing down the acceptable species. South Dakota presents another conditional scenario, allowing pet squirrels if they are purchased from a state where owning them is legal. This highlights the importance of considering the origin of your pet squirrel.
States That Require Permits for Pet Squirrels
In contrast to the states listed above, a number of states require permits or licenses to legally own a pet squirrel. This signifies a more regulated approach to exotic pet ownership, where authorities want to track and potentially control the keeping of squirrels. The states falling into this category are:
- Delaware
- Indiana
- Maine
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
If you reside in one of these states and are interested in owning a pet squirrel, your first step should be to investigate the specific permit requirements. This may involve applications, inspections, and ensuring you meet certain criteria for responsible exotic pet ownership.
States Where Pet Squirrels Are Generally Illegal
For a significant portion of the United States, owning a pet squirrel is not permitted. In “all other states and the District of Columbia,” as the regulations are often phrased, squirrels are prohibited as pets. Florida’s situation is somewhat ambiguous. While Florida is known for allowing a wide array of exotic animals, squirrels are not explicitly mentioned in their regulations, leading to uncertainty about their legality in this state. Therefore, in Florida, it is crucial to seek clarification from local animal control or wildlife authorities before considering squirrel ownership.
It is always safer to assume that squirrel ownership is illegal unless you find explicit legal allowance in your state’s regulations. This cautious approach can save you from potential legal issues and ensure you are acting responsibly.
Essential Considerations for Legal Squirrel Ownership
Beyond state-level regulations, several other factors can influence the legality of keeping a pet squirrel:
- Local Ordinances: Even if your state permits squirrel ownership, your city, county, or municipality might have stricter bylaws. Always check with your local animal control or city clerk’s office for any local ordinances regarding exotic pets or squirrels specifically.
- Landlord Restrictions: If you rent your home, your landlord’s rules are paramount. Even in a squirrel-legal state and locality, your lease agreement may prohibit exotic pets, including squirrels. Always obtain your landlord’s explicit permission before bringing a pet squirrel into a rented property.
- Source of the Squirrel: As highlighted in Nebraska’s case, the source of your squirrel matters. Many jurisdictions differentiate between wild-caught squirrels and those obtained from licensed breeders. Opting for a squirrel from a reputable breeder is generally recommended to ensure legality and to acquire a squirrel that is accustomed to human interaction. Wild squirrels are often difficult to tame and may not adapt well to captivity, raising ethical and practical concerns.
Conclusion: Do Your Homework Before Getting a Pet Squirrel
The legality of owning a pet squirrel in the USA is a patchwork of regulations that demands careful research. While some states welcome squirrel ownership with open arms, others impose strict permit requirements or outright bans. Before taking any steps to acquire a pet squirrel, thoroughly investigate your state and local laws. Contact your state’s wildlife agency and local animal control to get precise and up-to-date information. Ensuring your pet squirrel is legal is not just about compliance; it’s about responsible pet ownership and respecting wildlife regulations designed for animal welfare and public safety.
