Maryland Exotic Pets (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: Md. Crim. Law 10-621
Max fine: $1,000 per animal
Exemptions: AZA zoos, sanctuaries
Enforcement: DNR and local police

Full Breakdown

Md. Code Ann., Criminal Law Section 10-621 makes it a misdemeanor to import, possess, sell, trade, breed, or barter any of the listed dangerous wildlife species, including lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, mountain lions, bears, hyenas, wolves, foxes, raccoons, skunks, alligators, crocodiles, and primates. Limited exemptions apply to AZA-accredited zoos, sanctuaries, research facilities, licensed exhibitors, wildlife rehabilitators, and circuses. The Department of Natural Resources separately regulates other wildlife under NR Section 10-902. The statute applies uniformly to all jurisdictions in Maryland and preempts permissive local rules.

Violations & Penalties

Misdemeanor; fine up to $1,000 per animal; animals may be seized and forfeited to state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a serval or capuchin monkey in Maryland?

No. Maryland prohibits possession of nonhuman primates and most exotic cats statewide under Criminal Law Section 10-621. There is no permit pathway for private pet ownership of listed species.

Are pet ferrets, hedgehogs, or sugar gliders legal?

Ferrets are legal statewide but banned in some local jurisdictions. Hedgehogs and sugar gliders are not on the Section 10-621 prohibited list, but check local rules and DNR wildlife regulations for additional restrictions.

Maryland Bans Possession of Dangerous Wild Animals

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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