Pet Squirrel

January 12, 2023

Question: Is it legal to keep a squirrel as a pet?

Answer: No. It is unlawful to possess wild animals in California per California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 671 (PDF)(opens in new tab) and California Fish and Game Code section 2118(opens in new tab). It’s not in the best interest of wildlife, including the health of wildlife, to keep them in captivity. Typically, only zoos, wildlife sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation facilities have the proper veterinary staff, training, equipment and knowledge of how to properly feed and house wildlife to qualify for a permit. Additionally, keeping wildlife in captivity can be problematic from a public health and safety perspective. We understand that people want to care for wildlife, but the best way to do that is by letting wildlife be wild. Possession of California wildlife as a pet is a violation that California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) wildlife officers take seriously, and if discovered may result in citation and seizure of the wild animal.