New Jersey has some of the strictest pet laws in the country. While most common household pets are allowed, there are a number of animals that are illegal to own or keep as pets in the state.

What Pets Are Illegal in New Jersey?

Dangerous Animals

The following animals are considered dangerous and are illegal to own or possess in New Jersey:

1. Lions

2. Tigers

3. Bears

4. Wolves

5. Coyotes

6. Hyenas

7. Jackals

8. Kangaroos

9. Ostriches

10. Emus

Exotic Pets

The following animals are considered exotic and are illegal to own or possess in New Jersey without a permit:

1. Alligators

2. Crocodiles

3. Snakes over 6 feet long

4. Venomous snakes

5. Monkeys

6. Chimpanzees

7. Orangutans

8. Gorillas

9. Big cats (lions, tigers, leopards, etc.)

10. Bears

11. Wolves

12. Coyotes

13. Hyenas

14. Jackals

Wildlife

It is illegal to own or possess any native wildlife in New Jersey, including:

1. Deer

2. Raccoons

3. Opossums

4. Skunks

5. Beavers

6. Muskrat

7. River otter

8. Mink

9. Bobcats

10. Foxes