Where Are Ferrets Legal in US 2026? Only 2 States Ban Them, Here’s the Complete Map
Ferrets are legal in 48 out of 50 US states. Only California and Hawaii ban ferret ownership completely. However, some cities ban ferrets even in legal states—New York City and Washington D.C. previously banned them, though D.C. legalized ferrets in 2018. Georgia and Illinois require breeding licenses. Always check local ordinances before getting a ferret.
States Where Ferrets Are Completely Banned
California – Banned since 1933 Hawaii – Complete ban
These are the only two states with statewide ferret bans. In California, possession carries fines up to $1,000, and ferrets can be confiscated.
Why California Bans Ferrets
California banned ferrets in 1933 under California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 671, which classifies them as “not normally domesticated.”
The state’s reasoning:
- Fear that escaped ferrets could establish feral colonies
- Concerns about threats to native wildlife
- Potential ecosystem disruption
Current Status: In 2025, advocacy group Legalize Ferrets filed a petition with the California Office of Administrative Law challenging the ban. The group argues the 1933 ban predates the Administrative Procedure Act and never went through proper regulatory review.
The petition was formally referred to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife in late 2025. Public Records Act requests submitted in November 2025 seek evidence that ferrets were ever properly “determined” to be non-domesticated. The earliest realistic timeline for Commission review is late spring 2026.
Between 100,000-500,000 ferrets are estimated to be illegally owned in California.
Why Hawaii Bans Ferrets
Hawaii is the only rabies-free state in the US and wants to maintain that status.
The state’s reasoning:
- Ferrets can carry rabies
- Protection of fragile island ecosystem
- Risk of feral populations harming endemic species
- Strict quarantine laws to prevent non-native animals
Penalties for illegal ferret possession in Hawaii are severe. However, if caught, you can surrender the ferret without penalty rather than face charges.
Cities That Ban Ferrets
Even in states where ferrets are legal, some municipalities have bans:
New York City – Despite ferrets being legal in New York State, NYC maintains a ban within the five boroughs.
Washington D.C. – Legalized ferrets in 2018 (previously banned)
Texas localities – Specific jurisdictions like Dallas/Fort Worth restrict ferret ownership
Always verify local city and county ordinances before getting a ferret.
States Requiring Permits or Licenses
Georgia – Ferrets must be neutered by 7 months and have rabies vaccine. Breeding requires a license.
Illinois – Breeding ferrets requires a license; ownership is otherwise legal.
Most other states allow ferret ownership without special permits, though rabies vaccination is commonly required.
What You Need to Own a Ferret Legally
In states where ferrets are legal, typical requirements include:
- Rabies vaccination (required in most states)
- Health certificate for interstate travel
- Registration with local animal control (some jurisdictions)
- Spaying/neutering (required in some areas like Georgia by 7 months)
Penalties for Illegal Ferret Ownership
California:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Confiscation of the ferret
- Possible criminal charges for repeated violations
Hawaii:
- Confiscation
- Significant fines
- Option to surrender without penalty
Local violations:
- Fines typically $100-$500
- Confiscation by animal control
- Possible court appearance
Moving With Your Ferret
If relocating between states:
✅ Check destination laws – Verify state, county, and city regulations
✅ Get health certificate – Required for interstate travel, includes proof of rabies vaccination and Ferret Distemper vaccine
✅ Avoid banned states – Never move to California or Hawaii with a ferret
✅ Check local ordinances – State legality doesn’t guarantee city legality
You can travel through California with a ferret if you have proper health certificates showing you live elsewhere, but don’t get caught staying overnight.
Legal Classification of Ferrets
Ferrets have been domesticated for over 2,500 years, descended from European polecats. Despite this:
48 states classify ferrets as domestic pets California classifies ferrets as exotic/wild animals Hawaii treats ferrets as prohibited non-native species
This classification affects insurance liability. Wild animal owners are liable for any injuries their animals cause. Domestic pet owners are only liable if the animal is known to be vicious or trespasses.
Arguments For and Against Ferret Bans
Why Some Ban Ferrets:
- Fear of feral colonies forming if ferrets escape
- Concerns about predation on native wildlife
- Rabies transmission risk (though most pet ferrets are vaccinated)
- Misconceptions about ferret aggression based on 1980s media reports of infant attacks
Why Bans Don’t Make Sense:
- Most pet ferrets are spayed/neutered and can’t reproduce
- Ferrets can’t survive long-term in the wild (domesticated, kibble-fed)
- No documented feral ferret colonies exist in the US
- Legal in 48 states without environmental problems
- Approximately 326,000 American households own ferrets
Recent Developments (2025-2026)
California Petition Filed (2025) Legalize Ferrets filed a regulatory petition with California’s Office of Administrative Law challenging the legal basis of the 90+ year ban. The petition argues the ban never went through proper administrative review.
Public Records Requests (November 2025) Three targeted Public Records Act requests seek documentation of the Commission’s “determination” that ferrets are “not normally domesticated”—the legal basis for the ban.
Department Review (Late 2025-2026) California Department of Fish and Wildlife is reviewing the petition and must determine whether to support, oppose, or modify it before returning to the Fish and Game Commission for a vote.
Timeline Earliest realistic Commission agenda item is late spring 2026 after records production and staff review.
State-by-State Breakdown
Legal with no special requirements (45 states): Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas (except some cities), Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Legal with breeding license required (2 states): Georgia, Illinois
Banned statewide (2 states): California, Hawaii
Legal statewide but check local laws: New York (banned in NYC), Texas (banned in some cities)
How to Verify Local Ferret Laws
- Check state wildlife agency website – Most states list restricted animals
- Call local animal control – They know city/county ordinances
- Review municipal codes – Available online for most cities
- Contact your city clerk’s office – Can confirm current local laws
- Ask local ferret shelters – They know the legal landscape
Comparing US to Other Countries
Legal:
- Most of United States (48/50 states)
- Most of Europe
- Canada (except some provinces)
- Japan
Banned or Restricted:
- New Zealand (can’t buy, sell, or breed; existing owners grandfathered in 2002)
- Australia (strict licensing in some areas, banned in others)
- Portugal
- Parts of Canada
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit to own a ferret in California?
No. California does not issue permits for pet ferret ownership. The only exemptions are for zoos, research facilities, or similar institutions with special authorization.
What happens if I’m caught with a ferret in California?
Your ferret will be confiscated and you’ll face fines up to $1,000. Repeat violations can lead to criminal charges. The confiscated ferret is typically sent to a shelter in a state where ferrets are legal.
Can I drive through California with my ferret?
Technically yes if you’re just passing through with proper documentation showing you live in another state. However, staying overnight could result in problems if discovered.
Are ferrets dangerous?
No. Despite 1980s media reports, ferrets are not inherently aggressive. When properly socialized, they’re affectionate pets. Like any animal, they may bite if mishandled or frightened.
Why do some people think ferrets are wild animals?
Confusion with wild polecats or the endangered black-footed ferret (a different species). Domestic ferrets have been bred for 2,500+ years and are fully domesticated.
Can ferrets survive in the wild?
No. Domestic ferrets depend on humans for food and shelter. They’re fed kibble, can’t hunt effectively, and would quickly succumb to predators or harsh weather.
Will California ever legalize ferrets?
Possibly. The 2025 petition challenges the legal foundation of the ban. If the state can’t produce evidence that ferrets were ever properly “determined” to be non-domesticated, the ban could be overturned.
Do I need insurance to own a ferret?
Not specifically required by law, but some landlords may require pet liability insurance. Ferrets are usually covered under standard pet insurance in legal states.
Before getting a ferret, verify current laws with your state wildlife agency and local animal control. Laws can change, and local ordinances may restrict ferrets even in legal states.
California Department of Fish and Wildlife: wildlife.ca.gov | (916) 445-0411 Legalize Ferrets (California advocacy): legalizeferrets.org
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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