Sugar Glider Legal States 2026

States Where Sugar Gliders Are Legal

Sugar gliders are legal to own as pets in most U.S. states. In some of these states, local laws may impose additional restrictions within specific cities or counties.

States in this category include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

States Where Sugar Gliders Require a Permit

Some states allow sugar gliders as pets but require a permit or formal approval before ownership.

States in this category include Nebraska, New Jersey, and New Mexico.

States Where Sugar Gliders Are Illegal

In some states, sugar gliders are prohibited as pets under state law, typically due to restrictions on exotic animals.

States in this category include Alaska, California, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania.

Local Restrictions and Exceptions

Even in states where sugar gliders are legal at the state level, local laws may impose additional restrictions on ownership. These rules can vary by city or county and may prohibit ownership within specific jurisdictions.

Examples include Minnesota (illegal in St. Paul), Missouri (illegal in Sedalia), New York (illegal in New York City), and Utah (illegal in Salt Lake City). Because local ordinances can differ significantly, it is important to verify regulations at the city or county level before acquiring a sugar glider.