Alaska Exotic Pets Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Regulation: 5 AAC 92.029
Approach: Clean list system
Game pets: No permits issued
Enforcement: ADF&G statewide
Local override: Not permitted

Full Breakdown

Under 5 AAC 92.029, the Alaska Board of Game maintains a Clean List of species that may be imported or possessed without a permit. Animals not on the list are presumed prohibited statewide. The regulation expressly forbids issuing permits to keep game animals as pets, with very narrow legacy exceptions. Standards for adding species require clear and convincing evidence the animal cannot survive Alaska's wild, will not transmit disease, and poses no threat to native wildlife or people. Local governments cannot authorize possession the state has prohibited, making this rule effectively uniform statewide.

Violations & Penalties

Possession or import of unlisted live game is a misdemeanor under AS 16.05.921 with seizure, fines, and potential forfeiture of the animal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a wild-caught fox or raccoon as a pet in Alaska?

No. Foxes, raccoons, and most native wild species are game animals, and the Department of Fish and Game cannot issue a permit to keep any game animal as a pet under 5 AAC 92.029.

Can my city pass an ordinance allowing exotic pets that the state bans?

No. State law controls importation and possession of game and non-domestic species statewide, so a municipality cannot authorize an animal that 5 AAC 92.029 prohibits.

Alaska Exotic Pet Ban Under Clean List Rule