The Truth About The Legality Of Owning A Kangaroo In The US

Map created by World In Maps, based on this map from reddit.The map above supposedly shows the legality of owning a Kangaroo in the United States.

From the map author:

Thinking of getting a kangaroo as a pet? 🦘 You might want to check your state laws first!

This map shows the legal status of owning a kangaroo across the United States. In most states, it’s illegal to keep one as a pet.

A few states allow it with a special permit, while only a handful—like Wisconsin, South Carolina, and West Virginia—allow kangaroo ownership without any permit at all.

So unless you’re living in one of those green states, your kangaroo dream might have to stay in the outback.

But is it accurate?

It turns out there is some debate about it.

One of the top comments from the original reddit post by reddit user BlueGold stated:

WSA 169.04(1)(b): “No person may possess any live wild animal unless the person holds a license or other approval to possess the wild animal as required under this chapter or under s. 29.319 and the person is otherwise in compliance with this chapter and the rules promulgated under this chapter.”

WSA 169.04(4): Exemption for certain wild animals: “A person is exempt from holding a license or other approval as required under this chapter to possess live native wild animals if the wild animals are not endangered or threatened species and are any of the following: …”

Hate to throw a wrench in your gears pal, but Roos ain’t on that list. You’re gonna need a license or administrative regulatory approval.

Sorry, OP. Unless there is a separate statutory license exemption, Wisconsin is officially orange, and this map needs revision.

Edit: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/169/04.

Although reddit user countered with:

I dunno…

169.04(4)(b) states:

(b) A person is exempt from holding a license or other approval as required under this chapter to possess live nonnative wild animals that are not endangered or threatened species, except for any of the following:

Pheasants of the species Phasianus colchicus or Syrmaticus reevesii, chukar partridge, gray partridge, or red-legged partridge that are possessed for use under a bird hunting preserve license, a dog training license, a hound training license, a dog club training license, a dog trial license, or a hound trial license.

2. Nonnative wild birds of the family anatidae that are migratory birds.

3. Nonnative wild animals that are harmful wild animals.

A kangaroo does not fall under any of these criteria and thus are exempt from requiring a license or other approval.

Here’s what ChatGPT had to say about it:

The legality of owning a kangaroo in the United States is complex, it depends a lot on which state (and sometimes which county or city) you’re in.

Here’s a breakdown of the main issues, typical law-variations, and examples:

Key Legal Factors

State Laws vs. Local Laws
Even when a state allows exotic animals (like kangaroos) in some form, local ordinances (counties, cities, zoning rules) can impose additional restrictions or outright bans.
Permits & Licensing
In many places where it is legal (or partially so), you’ll need a permit or license, sometimes specialized permits for exotic/wild animals.
Definition of “Wild / Exotic / Non-native / Injurious” Animals
Kangaroos are non-native exotic animals. How a state classifies such animals (whether “harmless exotic”, “injurious”, “wild animal”, etc.) affects legal status. If a state law treats kangaroos as “dangerous wild animals” or “injurious”, restrictions are stricter.
Animal Welfare / Public Safety
Laws often also impose requirements for adequate space, enclosure, veterinary care, insurance, liability if animal escapes or causes damage, etc.
Federal Laws
Usually the federal laws aren’t the main block for owning a kangaroo unless the species is endangered, or you’re importing them, or crossing state lines. Most regulation is at state or local level.

Examples: Where It’s Legal (or Partially Legal)

Here are examples of U.S. states that are known to allow possession of kangaroos, sometimes with permits, sometimes with little restriction:

South Carolina: Kangaroo ownership is allowed. Farms can have them, etc. Source: https://www.wrdw.com
Texas: Among the states that allow kangaroos as exotic pets. Source: GreaterGood
Wisconsin: There is no state law explicitly forbidding kangaroo ownership; some local governments may regulate further. Source: 106.9 KROC
Also mentioned in sources: Illinois, Idaho, Maine, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Washington, West Virginia. Many of these require permits or have restrictions. Source: A-Z-Animals.com and Born Free

Examples: Where It’s Not Allowed or Restricted

California is fairly strict: wild animals, marsupials, etc., are regulated and you’ll often need a permit. Some exotic species are very restricted. Born Free USA
Many states either explicitly ban or heavily restrict “non-native wild animals,” or restrict “wildlife kept as pets,” which may include kangaroos. Permits may be denied or costly. Also, certain places have “injurious wildlife” lists.

Practical Considerations & Risks

Even if owning a kangaroo is legal where you are, there are many practical hurdles:

You need enough land or enclosure; fencing must be high and strong because kangaroos can jump and are powerful. Source: The Creature Teacher
Veterinary care: exotic vets are rare and costlier. Kangaroos are susceptible to diseases and need specialized diet and husbandry.
Liability or legal responsibility if animal escapes or injures someone. Laws often hold owners responsible.