Bush Baby Pet Legal States 2026

States Where Bush Babies Are Legal

In a small group of states, bush babies can be owned without a statewide prohibition. These states do not classify bush babies as banned exotic animals at the state level. States in this category include Kansas, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

However, “legal” does not mean simple. Even in these states, local counties or cities may impose additional restrictions, and federal regulations regarding interstate transport or animal welfare may still apply. Anyone considering ownership should verify both state and local rules before acquiring a bush baby.

States Where a Permit Is Required to Own a Bush Baby

In several states, bush babies are not outright banned—but ownership requires a state-issued permit. These permits are typically issued through a wildlife, agriculture, or natural resources agency and may require inspections, enclosure standards, veterinary documentation, or proof of experience handling exotic animals.

States in this category include Arizona, Delaware, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wyoming.

In these states, owning a bush baby without proper authorization can result in fines, confiscation of the animal, or other legal penalties. Permit requirements often reflect concerns about animal welfare, public safety, and the ecological impact of non-native species.

States Where Bush Baby Ownership Is Illegal

In most states, bush babies are illegal to own as private pets. These states prohibit possession of exotic primates under their wildlife or dangerous animal laws, regardless of whether the animal was purchased legally elsewhere.

States where bush babies are illegal include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia.

In these jurisdictions, private ownership is generally limited to licensed zoos, research institutions, or other authorized facilities. Individuals found in possession of a bush baby may face fines, seizure of the animal, and potential criminal charges.