Virginia Statewide Rule
Virginia Exotic and Nonnative Animal Permit Rules
Key Facts
- Regulation
- 4VAC15-30-40
- Statute
- Va. Code 29.1-521
- Permit issuer
- VA Dept. of Wildlife Resources
- Restricted examples
- Alligators, prairie dogs
Summary
Virginia regulates importation, possession, and sale of nonnative exotic animals through state wildlife regulations administered by the Department of Wildlife Resources.
Permit required. A special permit is required and may be issued by the department, if consistent with the department's fish and wildlife management program, to import, possess, or sell those nonnative (exotic) animals listed in the following table and in 4VAC15-20-210 that the board finds and declares to be predatory or undesirable within the meaning and intent of § 29.1-542 of the Code of Virginia, in that their introduction into the Commonwealth will be detrimental to the native fish and wildlife resources of Virginia.
Full Breakdown
Under 4VAC15-30-40, a special permit from the Department of Wildlife Resources is required to import, possess, or sell listed predatory or undesirable nonnative animals, including alligators, crocodiles, caimans, prairie dogs, monk parakeets (without seamless bands), and African rodents. Va. Code Section 29.1-521 makes it unlawful to possess regulated wildlife without a permit. These rules apply statewide and supersede local rules for the listed species. Localities can add their own restrictions on dangerous wild animals not covered by state regulations.
Violations & Penalties
Class 3 misdemeanor for unlawful possession; permits may be revoked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet alligator or caiman in Virginia?
Are monk parakeets legal as pets?
Sources
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.