19 States in the US Where You Can Own a Pet Fox

Red fox sitting gracefully on a fallen tree log — pixabay/Pexels

Owning a pet fox is a unique and exciting concept for animal enthusiasts. Foxes, with their charming behavior, bushy tails, and clever personalities, captivate many who dream of having them as pets. However, they are still fundamentally wild animals with specialized care requirements, ranging from secure housing to appropriate diet and veterinary needs. Because of this, most states in the US prohibit fox ownership. However, there are 19 states where it is legal to own a fox, provided specific guidelines and conditions are met. Here’s a closer look at these states and their regulations for fox ownership.

Arkansas

A majestic red fox sitting among golden dry grass — Pixabay/Pixabay

In Arkansas, you can legally own a pet fox with a Fur Stocking Permit. This permit ensures that the fox is ethically sourced, often from licensed breeders rather than the wild. Owners are required to meet strict housing standards, including escape-proof enclosures that prevent contact with local wildlife. Captive-bred foxes are preferred, as they are better adjusted to human care than wild-caught foxes. Owners must also demonstrate their ability to provide proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary care to ensure the animal’s well-being while complying with state wildlife regulations.

Delaware

Fox sleeping comfortably on a large smooth rock — Pixabay/Pexels

Delaware allows individuals to keep pet foxes but imposes strict conditions to ensure responsible ownership. A permit is typically required to verify that the fox comes from a legal, captive-bred source and not the wild. The state mandates secure enclosures that prevent foxes from escaping or posing a risk to local ecosystems. Owners must also provide veterinary care, regular vaccinations, and a suitable environment with enrichment activities to maintain the fox’s health and happiness. Local counties may enforce additional rules, so it’s important to research thoroughly before acquiring a pet fox.

Florida

Side profile of a red fox outdoors alertly standing

Fox ownership is legal in Florida under a Class III Wildlife Permit, which requires owners to prove their ability to care for exotic animals responsibly. The state requires escape-proof enclosures, a proper diet, and regular veterinary care to ensure the fox’s well-being. Permits are issued only after evaluating the safety of the enclosure and the owner’s preparedness to care for the animal. Foxes must not pose a danger to the environment or the public. Florida also stresses the importance of responsible ownership, ensuring that the animal is protected and humanely cared for.

Illinois

Smiling red fox lying under sunlight in grass — Michael Heinrich/Pexels

In Illinois, owning a pet fox is permitted, but owners must comply with several strict conditions. A permit is required, and the fox must come from a legal, captive-bred source. Housing regulations mandate secure enclosures that prevent escape and ensure the safety of both the fox and the public. Owners must also provide proof of veterinary care, including vaccinations. Since local ordinances can vary, prospective owners need to check with their city or county to ensure full compliance. Proper enrichment, diet, and care are also essential components of legal fox ownership.

Indiana

Red fox standing in a yellow wildflower field — lougeerling/Pixabay

Indiana allows the ownership of pet foxes under regulated conditions. Owners must apply for a permit that ensures the fox comes from a reputable, licensed breeder. Foxes must be housed in secure enclosures that prevent escapes and interactions with local wildlife. The state also requires proof of vaccinations and regular veterinary visits to maintain the fox’s health. Owners are expected to provide an enriched environment, proper nutrition, and a clean habitat. Compliance with both state and local regulations is mandatory, ensuring the safety of the fox and the surrounding community.

Maine

Sleeping red fox curled up on a pillow — Joseph Yu/Pexels

Maine permits individuals to own pet foxes but enforces strict regulations to ensure animal welfare and public safety. A permit may be required depending on the species, and owners must demonstrate their ability to provide secure housing, enrichment, and proper care. Foxes must be kept in escape-proof enclosures to prevent contact with local wildlife, minimizing the risk of ecosystem disruption. Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, is essential. Owners must meet all state and local requirements before acquiring a fox, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges of fox ownership.

Michigan

Fox peeking into car windshield during golden hour — Erik Mclean/Pexels

In Michigan, owning a pet fox is legal as long as the fox is captive-bred and obtained from a licensed breeder. Owners must apply for a permit and adhere to strict housing regulations, including secure, escape-proof enclosures. Proper care is required, including a balanced diet, enrichment activities, and regular veterinary visits to ensure the fox remains healthy. Michigan also mandates that fox owners comply with local laws, which may impose additional restrictions. Thorough research is necessary to ensure full legal compliance before acquiring a fox as a pet.

Missouri

A fox lying down in the sunny green grass — Brett Jordan/Pexels

Missouri allows individuals to own pet foxes under its exotic animal laws, but owners must obtain a permit and meet specific care requirements. Foxes must come from licensed breeders, and secure enclosures are mandatory to prevent escape. Owners are responsible for the animal’s welfare, which includes providing a proper diet, enrichment activities, and regular veterinary care. Missouri emphasizes ethical and responsible ownership to protect the health of the fox and the safety of the community. Compliance with local ordinances is also necessary to ensure legal ownership.

Nebraska

Red fox looking up in a forest clearing — Anastasia Shuraeva/Pexels

Nebraska permits the ownership of pet foxes, provided the animal is captive-bred and legally sourced. Owners must adhere to strict housing requirements, which include escape-proof enclosures to keep the fox contained and safe. Proper care involves providing a nutritious diet, regular enrichment, and veterinary care to maintain the fox’s well-being. State laws prioritize the safety of the fox and the surrounding environment. Local regulations may add further conditions, so research at the county level is necessary before acquiring a pet fox.

New York

Close-up of a red fox's face resting peacefully — Egor Kamelev/Pexels

Owning a pet fox is legal in New York, but strict regulations are in place to ensure the animal’s safety and welfare. Owners must obtain a permit and demonstrate that they can provide proper housing, including secure enclosures that prevent escape. Only certain species of foxes, such as captive-bred foxes, are permitted. The state requires regular veterinary care and emphasizes responsible ownership. Local municipalities may impose additional restrictions, so owners must check their local laws to ensure full compliance.

North Dakota

In North Dakota, individuals can legally own pet foxes with a proper permit. The state requires that foxes be captive-bred and housed in secure enclosures to prevent escapes and protect local wildlife. Owners must provide adequate care, including proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary services. Compliance with state regulations and local ordinances is necessary to maintain legal ownership. North Dakota emphasizes responsible ownership, ensuring the safety and health of both the animal and the community.

Ohio

Ohio allows the ownership of pet foxes with the appropriate permits. Owners must meet strict housing standards, including secure enclosures that prevent the animal from escaping. Foxes must receive proper veterinary care, including vaccinations, to ensure their health and safety. Owners are also required to provide a nutritious diet and enrichment to meet the fox’s needs. Local ordinances may impose additional restrictions, so prospective fox owners must conduct thorough research before acquiring a pet.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma permits individuals to own pet foxes under its exotic animal laws. Owners must obtain a permit and meet strict housing and care requirements. Secure enclosures are mandatory to prevent escape, and foxes must be provided with proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary care. Oklahoma emphasizes the importance of ethical ownership to ensure the welfare of the animal and the safety of the community. It’s also important to follow local rules and guidelines.

Rhode Island

orange-fox-between-tall-grass-and-weeds — zoe-jackson/pexels

Rhode Island allows the ownership of pet foxes but requires permits to ensure responsible care. Owners must demonstrate that they can provide secure housing, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Enclosures must be escape-proof to protect both the fox and the environment. State and local regulations must be followed to maintain legal ownership. Rhode Island emphasizes ethical treatment and the importance of meeting the unique needs of pet foxes.

South Dakota

In South Dakota, pet fox ownership is permitted with proper permits. Owners must comply with state regulations, including housing standards that require secure, escape-proof enclosures. Providing a proper diet, enrichment activities, and veterinary care is essential to maintaining the fox’s health. South Dakota stresses the importance of responsible ownership to ensure the safety of the animal and the community. Local ordinances may apply, so research is necessary.

Tennessee

Tennessee allows individuals to own pet foxes with a permit. Foxes must be captive-bred and housed in secure enclosures to prevent escape. Owners are responsible for providing proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary care. Tennessee emphasizes the importance of ethical ownership and adherence to state and local regulations to ensure the fox’s welfare.

Texas

In Texas, pet fox ownership is permitted with a domestic animal permit. Owners must ensure their foxes are vaccinated for rabies and housed in secure enclosures to prevent escape. Local laws may add further restrictions, so owners must research thoroughly. Proper care, including diet, enrichment, and veterinary visits, is essential to ensure the health and safety of the fox.

Wisconsin

Close-up of a red fox looking alertly sideways — Pixabay/Pexels

Wisconsin allows individuals to own pet foxes but requires owners to register their animals with a veterinarian within 30 days of purchase. Escape-proof enclosures are mandatory to ensure safety, and regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, is required. Compliance with state and local regulations is necessary to maintain legal ownership and protect the animal’s welfare.

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