Squirrels can make wonderful pets, providing endless hours of entertainment and companionship. However, before you decide to bring a squirrel into your home, it's important to check the laws in your state to make sure it's legal to keep one as a pet.

What States Allow Squirrels as Pets?

States That Allow Squirrels as Pets

The following states allow squirrels as pets:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

States That Do Not Allow Squirrels as Pets

The following states do not allow squirrels as pets:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Hawaii
  • Michigan
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • Oregon
  • Utah

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to the above rules. For example, some states may allow you to keep a squirrel as a pet if you have a permit. In other states, you may be able to keep a squirrel as a pet if it is injured or orphaned. Be sure to check the laws in your state before you bring a squirrel into your home.

Conclusion

Squirrels can make wonderful pets, but it's important to make sure it's legal to keep one in your state before you bring one home. If you're not sure whether or not it's legal to keep a squirrel as a pet in your state, you can contact your local animal control agency for more information.