Kangaroos in Wisconsin? Tigers in Texas? Pet ownership laws vary dramatically across the U.S. Discover the most unusual animals you can legally own in each state.
The Data
America's patchwork of exotic animal laws means what's illegal in California might be perfectly fine in Nevada. This map highlights the most surprising animals you can legally keep as pets in each state.
| State | Weirdest Legal Pet | Permit Required |
|---|---|---|
| Texas | Tiger | No (varies by county) |
| Wisconsin | Kangaroo | No |
| Nevada | Elephant | Yes |
| North Carolina | Venomous Snake | No |
| Ohio | Wolf Hybrid | Yes (post-2012) |
Key Findings
Texas is wild. The Lone Star State has some of the most permissive exotic animal laws in the country, allowing ownership of big cats, primates, and more with minimal regulation.
Big cats are common. More tigers live in captivity in the United States than in the wild globally—and many are in private homes.
Some states ban everything. California, Hawaii, and a few others have near-total bans on exotic pet ownership for environmental and safety reasons.
Methodology
Data compiled from state wildlife agency regulations and the Animal Legal Defense Fund's exotic animal law database. Laws current as of 2024.
Sources
- State Wildlife Agencies
- Animal Legal Defense Fund