Kansas has a reputation for relatively liberal exotic pet laws, but squirrels sit in a different legal category than most people expect. If you have spotted a fox squirrel darting through a Wichita park or watched a gray squirrel raid a bird feeder in Overland Park, you may have wondered whether one of these animals could live in your home. The answer, under current Kansas law, is more complicated — and more restrictive — than the state’s broader exotic pet framework might suggest.
Native squirrels in Kansas are treated as protected wildlife, not as exotic pets. That distinction shapes everything from permit availability to the penalties you could face for keeping one without authorization. This guide walks through every layer of the law so you can make a fully informed decision before you take any action.
Important Note: Exotic pet laws change. Always verify current rules directly with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) before acquiring any wildlife. The information here reflects sources current as of mid-2026.
Is It Legal to Own a Squirrel in Kansas?
The short answer is no — not as a private pet. It is not legal to keep a squirrel as a pet in Kansas. This applies to the native tree squirrel species that are most commonly encountered across the state.
To understand why, you need to know how Kansas separates “exotic wildlife” from “native protected wildlife.” Under state regulation, “exotic wildlife” includes only those wildlife species that are non-migratory and are not native or indigenous to Kansas, or do not presently exist in Kansas as an established wild population. Native Kansas species — think bobcats, raccoons, and foxes — are treated as protected wildlife, not as exotic pets, and are generally off-limits for private ownership. Squirrels fall squarely into this protected-wildlife category.
Kansas uses a multi-layer regulatory system that combines state statutes, administrative rules, and federal oversight. Exotic pet ownership is regulated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) under Kansas Statute 32-1301, which is the backbone of the state’s Dangerous Regulated Animals Act, but it works alongside a separate set of administrative regulations that govern non-dangerous exotic wildlife.
Under K.A.R. 115-20-3, exotic wildlife species may be imported, possessed, sold, offered for sale, or purchased, provided the exotic wildlife was legally captured, raised, exported, possessed, sold, or purchased in its place of origin. The critical catch is that native Kansas squirrels do not qualify as “exotic wildlife” under this regulation — they are regulated separately as native protected species, and private possession permits for them are simply not issued to the general public.
Kansas issues no licenses for squirrel ownership except for rehabilitation and education purposes. That means the pathway to legally keeping a squirrel in Kansas is narrow and not designed for private pet ownership at all. For a broader look at squirrel diversity and behavior before you decide, see our guide on different types of squirrels.
Which Squirrel Species Are Legal in Kansas?
Kansas is home to several tree and ground squirrels, including gray, fox, and Southern flying squirrels. Ground squirrels such as Franklin’s ground squirrel, spotted ground squirrel, and chipmunks are also present across the state. All of these native species fall under state wildlife protection and cannot be privately owned as pets.
The Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and the fox squirrel (Sciurus niger) are the two tree squirrel species most commonly encountered by Kansans. Both are classified as small game animals under state hunting regulations, which means they can be hunted with a license during open season — but hunting authorization does not translate into a right to keep them alive as pets.
The Southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans) occupies an interesting middle ground. Data on squirrel ownership laws typically applies to native squirrels such as red squirrels, gray squirrels, and fox squirrels. Non-native species of squirrel and flying squirrels may be subject to different regulations. Because the Southern flying squirrel is native to Kansas, it receives the same protected-wildlife treatment as other native species. You can learn more about this animal’s unique biology in our flying squirrel overview.
A non-native squirrel species sourced from outside Kansas could theoretically qualify as “exotic wildlife” under K.A.R. 115-20-3, since that regulation covers non-native, non-migratory species. However, exotic pet laws are often unclear, and contacting your state’s game department is always the best approach to clarify any specific situation. Do not assume a non-native squirrel species is automatically legal without a direct confirmation from the KDWPT.
Key Insight: The species question matters less than the native vs. non-native distinction. Any squirrel species native to Kansas is off-limits for private pet ownership regardless of how common it is in your backyard.
Permit and License Requirements in Kansas
Kansas does not offer a standard exotic pet permit pathway for native squirrels. The only permit categories that authorize possession of native squirrels are wildlife rehabilitation permits and scientific or educational exhibition permits — neither of which is available to someone who simply wants a squirrel as a companion animal.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) does have exceptions for people to raise and sell some species under a game breeder permit. The 2023 Game Breeder Report from the KDWP shows the majority of these permits are being used to breed bird species like pheasants and quail, with some dedicated to the breeding of snake species. Squirrels are not listed among the species covered by game breeder permits for private sale.
For scientific, educational, or exhibition purposes, the KDWP does issue a Scientific, Educational, or Exhibition Permit. The regulations regarding this permit include applications, reporting, and general provisions, and additional rules may exist in statute. To apply for a collecting permit to collect species for scientific, educational, or exhibition purposes, you can apply through the Go Outdoors Kansas licensing portal. These permits are not granted for private pet ownership.
Individuals seeking to own exotic animals must meet specific requirements, including obtaining permits and ensuring the species is not on the prohibited list. Prospective owners must apply for a permit through the KDWPT, which requires detailed information about the species, purpose of ownership, and housing facilities. Applications are evaluated to ensure the environment meets the animal’s needs and that the owner can care for the animal responsibly.
The permit application fee is typically around $50 and varies based on the species and intended use. Owners must maintain records of the animal’s health, origin, and any transfers of ownership to prevent illegal trade and track exotic species. The KDWPT may also conduct inspections to ensure compliance with permit conditions and verify that animals are kept humanely and safely. These requirements apply to exotic wildlife permits generally; native squirrel permits for private ownership are not issued at all.
Where to Legally Obtain a Pet Squirrel in Kansas
Because Kansas does not issue private pet permits for native squirrel species, there is no legal route to obtain a pet squirrel within the state for personal companion purposes. You cannot trap one from your yard, rescue an orphan and keep it, or purchase one from a local seller without running into serious legal problems.
Squirrels can only legally be bought from USDA-licensed breeders. If someone is trying to sell a squirrel without a USDA license, even if they are licensed by the state or county to possess that squirrel, that is wildlife trafficking and is a federal crime. This federal layer applies regardless of what any individual state’s rules say.
Kansas administration regulation 115-20-3 states that anyone can own an exotic pet provided the pet has been acquired in a legal manner, meaning the pet had to be sold to the owner rather than the owner removing the exotic pet from the wild. This rule applies to genuinely exotic (non-native) species — it does not create a pathway for native squirrels.
If you are drawn to the idea of a small, active mammal as a pet, consider researching fully domesticated alternatives. If your interest is in Kansas wildlife more broadly, our guides on owls in Kansas and hawks in Kansas offer a closer look at the wildlife you can observe legally and ethically in the wild. For those interested in squirrels in general, our squirrel resource hub covers behavior, diet, and ecology in depth.
Pro Tip: If you find an injured or orphaned squirrel, contact a licensed Kansas wildlife rehabilitator rather than attempting to keep the animal yourself. The KDWP maintains a list of licensed rehabilitators across the state.
Housing and Care Requirements in Kansas
Because private squirrel ownership is not legally permitted in Kansas, there are no state-issued housing standards designed for pet squirrel owners. The care requirements discussed here apply to the narrow category of permitted holders — licensed rehabilitators and educational exhibitors — and are included so you understand what authorized caretakers must provide.
Licensed rehabilitators in Kansas must house squirrels in enclosures that support natural behaviors, allow adequate movement, and protect the animal from stress and predation. The goal of rehabilitation is always release back into the wild, not long-term captivity. Educational exhibitors must demonstrate that their housing meets the animal’s behavioral and physical needs as part of the permit application process reviewed by the KDWPT.
Exotic wildlife must be confined or controlled at all times and must not be released onto the lands or into the waters of the state. For rehabilitators, this means controlled outdoor enclosures that prepare squirrels for release without allowing premature escape into the wild.
For general reference, squirrels in captive care settings typically require large multi-level enclosures with branches for climbing, nesting material, and a diet of nuts, seeds, fruits, and leafy greens. Common licensing requirements in states that do permit squirrel ownership involve minimum enclosure sizes, veterinary exams to ensure the animal’s health, and sometimes mandate owners to carry insurance policies. Kansas applies similar standards to its authorized permit holders.
If you are curious about other Kansas wildlife you can observe legally around your property, our guides on eagles in Kansas, bees in Kansas, and butterflies in Kansas are good starting points.
Local and Municipal Restrictions in Kansas
Even if state law permitted squirrel ownership — which it does not for private pets — you would still need to clear a second layer of legal review at the city and county level. Many local cities and counties have their own restrictions on which animals are legal to keep and which are not. The City of Topeka, for example, keeps a list of restricted animals that includes snapping turtles, monitor lizards, ostriches, and more. You should check with your local city and county for their regulations regarding what pets you can and cannot own.
An import permit from the state does not override local restrictions. Even if the KDWPT approves your permit application, your city or county may still prohibit the animal outright. Always verify at both levels before purchasing.
Cities like Wichita, Kansas City (KS), Lawrence, and Manhattan each maintain their own animal control ordinances. Some municipalities define “domesticated” animals narrowly and prohibit anything outside that definition without a special exemption. Under some local codes, it is unlawful to own, keep, harbor, or possess any animal which is not domesticated. A squirrel, as a wild native species, would not meet the definition of a domesticated animal under such ordinances.
While your state may allow you to keep certain animals as pets, local laws can restrict ownership. State laws are frequently changing in response to concerns for public safety and animal well-being, and you should always double-check for any new or proposed state or local legislation.
Renters face an additional layer of restriction. If you are renting, check with your landlord to see if it is okay for you to have a pet. While a squirrel may be legal in your state, you will need to ensure it is permitted in the home. Lease agreements often prohibit exotic or wild animals regardless of local ordinances. For a look at other wildlife regulations in neighboring states, see our article on owls in Arkansas.
Penalties for Illegal Squirrel Ownership in Kansas
Keeping a squirrel without authorization in Kansas carries real legal consequences. The state does not treat wildlife possession violations as minor infractions, and enforcement can involve multiple agencies.
Violating Kansas exotic pet laws can result in fines, confiscation of the animal, and criminal charges under Kansas Statute 32-1034. Penalties vary based on the violation, species involved, and the threat posed to public safety or the environment.
Fines for owning prohibited species without permits can reach $1,000 per offense, and the KDWPT may seize animals kept illegally. Repeat offenders or those whose actions cause harm to individuals or ecosystems may face harsher penalties, including misdemeanor charges and potential jail time.
At the municipal level, penalties can compound the state-level consequences. A municipal court judge may order the immediate confiscation of a prohibited animal upon a finding that the animal poses an immediate danger to the public or itself. Upon conviction for owning a prohibited animal, the court shall order confiscation. Any animal confiscated under this provision must be transferred to an appropriate licensed animal rehabilitation or care facility.
Beyond Kansas-specific penalties, federal law adds another dimension. Federal laws like the Lacey Act regulate the trade of wildlife, while state laws dictate whether you can legally keep a squirrel as a pet. Purchasing a squirrel from an unlicensed seller — even if you were unaware of the seller’s status — can expose you to federal wildlife trafficking charges. The KDWPT can revoke permits if owners fail to meet regulations, such as providing proper living conditions, neglecting the animal, or engaging in illegal trade.
| Violation Type | Potential Consequence | Governing Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Possessing a native squirrel without authorization | Fine up to $1,000 per offense; animal confiscation | KDWPT (K.S.A. 32-1034) |
| Repeat or harmful violations | Misdemeanor charges; potential jail time | KDWPT / Kansas courts |
| Municipal ordinance violation | Animal confiscation; municipal fines | Local animal control / municipal court |
| Purchasing from unlicensed seller | Federal wildlife trafficking exposure (Lacey Act) | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service |
The clearest path forward if you encounter a squirrel that needs help is to contact a licensed rehabilitator. If your interest is in Kansas wildlife observation, there is plenty to explore legally — from the moths of Kansas to the beetles of Kansas and the ants of Kansas. And if squirrels in your yard are becoming a nuisance rather than a delight, our guide on plants that repel squirrels offers humane, legal deterrent strategies.
Kansas law on this point is consistent and clear: native squirrels belong in the wild, and the state’s permit structure reflects that priority. Understanding the rules before you act is the best way to protect both yourself and the animals you care about.