Which U.S. States Allow Squirrels as Pets? Legal Status, Permits, and How to Get Started

By Samantha CollinsLast Updated September 18, 2025

Photo by Griffin Wooldridge on Unsplash

Introduction: Understanding Squirrel Ownership in the U.S.

Interest in keeping squirrels as pets has grown in recent years, but regulations vary significantly across states. Owning a pet squirrel involves navigating a complex patchwork of state wildlife laws, permit requirements, and animal welfare considerations. This guide provides a detailed overview of which states allow squirrels as pets, what permits may be required, and step-by-step guidance for those considering squirrel ownership. All information is based on current, verifiable sources and official state agency guidance.

States Where Squirrels May Be Kept Legally as Pets

States differ widely in their approach to squirrel ownership. Some permit it with licenses or specific conditions, while others ban it outright or restrict it to wildlife rehabilitation or educational uses. Below is a summary of states where keeping a squirrel as a pet may be legal under certain circumstances, along with key requirements and examples.

States with Legal Pathways (with Permits or Restrictions)

Florida : Squirrel ownership is legal with a
Class III Personal Pet No-Cost Permit
, only if you purchase from a USDA-licensed breeder. Wild-caught squirrels are prohibited. The permit must be renewed every two years. Squirrels cannot be taken in public. For more, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s website and search for ‘Class III Personal Pet Permit’. [1]
Oklahoma : Legal with a non-commercial breeder’s permit if purchased from a USDA-licensed breeder. Permit costs $48, is renewed annually, and requires an inspection by a game warden. Wild-caught squirrels are not allowed. Details are available on the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation’s site. [1]
Pennsylvania : Legal if obtained from a USDA-approved breeder located in Pennsylvania and with approval from the Pennsylvania Game Commission Special Permits Enforcement Division. Contact the division for up-to-date requirements and the latest application process. [1]
South Dakota : May be kept if sourced from a USDA-licensed breeder. Native wild squirrels cannot be taken from the wild. Contact the South Dakota Animal Industry Board for documentation requirements. [1]
South Carolina : Squirrels taken from the wild within South Carolina can be kept, but squirrels cannot be imported from other states. However, this is risky as local authorities may euthanize the squirrel if there is concern about exposure. [1]
Tennessee : Legal with a Wildlife Possession Permit for Class II animals, only for captive-born squirrels from USDA-licensed breeders. A $31 permit, renewed yearly, is required. Importation permits are needed for out-of-state purchases. Visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency’s official site and search for ‘Wildlife Possession Permit’. [1]
Arizona : Legal with a license if you provide proper housing and care. Permits are relatively easy to obtain through the Arizona Game and Fish Department. [2]
Arkansas : No license required for up to six squirrels, provided they are lawfully acquired and have proper housing and care. [2]
Illinois : Requires a Class A Wild Game Breeder Permit, available online for a fee. Only squirrels not taken from the wild are allowed. [2]
Indiana : Legal with a license, provided the squirrel is not taken from the wild and housing/inspection requirements are met. [2]
Kentucky : May issue licenses for squirrels not taken from the wild after application and inspection. [2]
Michigan : Legal with a license; must have proper care, housing, and pass inspection. [2]
Minnesota : No license needed if lawfully obtained and you have proof. [2]
Nevada : Unrestricted in rural areas (except Las Vegas and Reno); must provide proper care and housing. [2]
New Jersey : Legal with a Captive Game Permit for lawfully obtained squirrels. [2]
Oregon : Legal with a license, proper housing, and inspection. [2]
Texas : Legal with a license, though difficult to obtain. [2]

States Where Squirrel Ownership Is Typically Prohibited

Many states prohibit the private ownership of squirrels as pets, restricting them to wildlife rehabilitation, education, or scientific purposes. These include:

California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and others. [1] [2]

For most of these states, exceptions exist only for licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educational institutions, or zoos. Always verify with your state’s wildlife or natural resources department before acquiring a squirrel.

Step-by-Step Guidance for Legal Squirrel Ownership

If you live in a state that allows pet squirrels, follow these steps to ensure legal and responsible ownership:

Research State and Local Laws: Begin by contacting your state’s wildlife agency or natural resources department. Regulations change frequently, and local ordinances can be stricter than state law. Look for official permit application forms and requirements.
Secure a Licensed Breeder: Most states require that squirrels be obtained from a USDA-licensed breeder. Never capture wild squirrels, as this is illegal in nearly all jurisdictions and can harm wild populations.
Apply for the Appropriate Permit: Obtain the required permit or license. This may include submitting proof of proper housing, passing an inspection, and paying fees. Permit renewal periods vary; some require annual renewal, while others are valid for longer periods.
Prepare Proper Housing and Care: States typically mandate specific standards for housing, nutrition, and enrichment to ensure animal welfare. Research best practices for squirrel care and be ready for an inspection by local wildlife authorities.
Maintain Documentation: Keep permits, proof of legal acquisition, and veterinary records accessible. You may be required to present these documents during inspections or if questions arise about your pet’s origin.

Practical Examples and Challenges

For example, in Florida , you must buy a squirrel from a USDA-licensed breeder and apply for a Class III permit online. After approval, you must renew every two years and follow strict rules-such as not exhibiting your pet in public. In Oklahoma , the process is similar but requires an annual inspection by a game warden and a non-commercial breeder’s permit. In Tennessee , the Wildlife Possession Permit costs $31 per year, and you must use an approved breeder. The process can take several weeks and requires advance planning.

Challenges include meeting housing standards, passing inspections, and navigating changing regulations. Some states may interpret laws differently, so contacting your agency directly is essential. You may also face social or veterinary hurdles, as not all veterinarians are experienced with squirrels.

Alternative Approaches and Special Considerations

If your state does not allow squirrels as pets, consider alternatives such as volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center or supporting conservation programs. Some states allow temporary care of injured or orphaned squirrels through licensed wildlife rehabilitators. If you wish to advocate for legal changes, connect with exotic pet advocacy organizations and participate in state-level legislative processes.

Remember, even in legal states, squirrels require specialized care, can live for over a decade, and have complex dietary and environmental needs. Carefully consider your ability to provide long-term, species-appropriate care before pursuing ownership.

How to Find the Most Current Information

Because laws and regulations change frequently, always check directly with your state’s wildlife or natural resources agency for the latest requirements. Use search terms like “pet squirrel permit + [your state]” and consult only official government websites or state-published documents. If you are uncertain about any requirements, request written confirmation from the agency before obtaining a squirrel.

If you need to contact your state wildlife agency, you can usually find contact information on the official state government website or by calling the state’s main government information line and asking for the wildlife or natural resources department.

Key Takeaways

Legal ownership of squirrels as pets is possible in a limited number of U.S. states, usually with strict requirements and permits. Always obtain squirrels from USDA-licensed breeders and never capture wild animals. Maintain compliance with all state and local laws, and prepare for ongoing care and responsibility. For the most reliable information, consult your state’s official wildlife agency.