Sugar Gliders are a type of small marsupial that is native to Australia. They are nocturnal animals and have become popular pets in the United States in recent years. Sugar gliders are not legal to own in all 50 states, and there are some states with more restrictive laws than others. Also, sugar gliders are not legal to own in all Australian states.
This guide will provide an overview of the laws in each state so that you can be sure you are complying with the law if you decide to get a sugar glider as a pet.
Are you in a hurry? Select your state and see if sugar gliders are legal or illegal.
US State Laws
Sugar gliders are small, marsupial animals that originate from Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. These playful little creatures have become popular pets in the United States in recent years. However, before you run out and buy a sugar glider, it’s important to be aware of the laws regarding these animals.
Code of Federal Regulations defines exotic animals as an animal that is “native to a foreign country or of foreign origin or character, is not native to the United States, or was introduced from abroad“. This includes sugar gliders.
Each state has its own set of rules and regulations governing the ownership of exotic pets, and sugar gliders fall into this category. In some states, such as California, it is 100% illegal to own a sugar glider. However, in other states, such as Georgia, you must obtain a special permit in order to keep one as a pet. So, if you’re thinking about getting a sugar glider, be sure to check your state’s laws first.
States where sugar gliders are legal
There are 41 states in the US where sugar gliders are legal to own. These states are:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington State
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
States where sugar gliders are illegal
There are 3 states in the US where sugar gliders are 100% illegal. These are:
- Alaska, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game;
- California, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife;
- Hawaii, according to Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture.
In Alaska, while they do not mention the fact that it is illegal to own a sugar glider, they do mention a list of animals that are legal to own. The list does not include sugar gliders, making it safe to say that they are not allowed.
States where sugar gliders need permit
A permit is needed in the following 3 states in order to own a sugar glider:
- Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources;
- New Mexico, according to the New Mexico Administrative Code;
- Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Game and Wildlife Code.
Owning an exotic pet can be a very rewarding experience. These animals often have unique personalities and can make great companions. However, before you bring an exotic pet home, it’s important to do your research.
Many of these animals have specialized care needs that can be difficult to meet. In addition, many exotic species are regulated by the US government and require permits for possession and/or breeding. The last thing you want is to get in trouble for owning your pet, so be sure to check with the US Department of Agriculture before making any decisions. With a little bit of planning, you can be the proud owner of a healthy and happy exotic pet.
States where sugar gliders are legal but illegal in some cities
There are 3 states where sugar gliders are legal, but there are some specific cities within those states where they are not allowed. These states and cities are:
- Minnesota: it’s illegal to have a sugar glider in St. Paul;
- New York: it’s illegal to have a sugar glider in New York City;
- Utah: it’s illegal to have a sugar glider in Salt Lake City.
Are sugar gliders legal in Australia?
In Australia, there are a lot of concerns about keeping sugar gliders as pets, as well as some opposition against keeping native animals as pets. However, sugar gliders are legal in the following territories:
- Northern Territory;
- South Australia;
- Victoria.
Sugar gliders are illegal in the following Australian states:
- Australian Capital Territory;
- Queensland;
- New South Wales;
- Tasmania;
- Western Australia.
Are sugar gliders legal in Europe?
There is no Europe-wide law on banning sugar gliders as pets. Each country has its own laws and regulations, and sugar gliders are legal to be kept as pets in all EU-countries. As a matter a fact, in countries such as Germany or UK, the number of sugar glider owners is on the rise in recent years.
However, it’s not recommended to get a sugar glider as a pet in Europe because usually they don’t adapt well to the climate. If you decide to get a sugar glider as a pet, be prepared for a lot of work, as they require a lot of care and attention.
Conclusion
To summarize, sugar gliders are legal in 41 states, illegal in 3 states, and require a permit in 3 additional states. There are also a few cities within states where sugar gliders are legal that have banned them. If you’re thinking about getting a sugar glider, be sure to check your state and local laws first.
