New Jersey might surprise you with its exotic pet laws. While the Garden State bans the “big five” (primates, bears, big cats, wolves, and venomous reptiles), you can legally own a fascinating array of unusual animals—from colorful parrots to scaled reptiles.
Most require an Individual Hobby Wildlife Species Possession Permit from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, which costs around $20 for small animals and $50 for larger species.
The best part? One permit covers multiple animals, and you’ll receive it the same day you purchase your pet. Here’s your guide to 14 exotic pets you can legally keep in the Garden State.
1. Budgerigar
The budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), commonly called a budgie or parakeet, tops the list as one of the most beginner-friendly exotic birds you can own in New Jersey without a permit. These small Australian parrots measure just 7 inches long and live 5-10 years with proper care.
Budgies thrive in pairs or small flocks, as they’re highly social creatures that can become depressed when kept alone. Their chatty personalities and ability to mimic human speech make them entertaining companions. You’ll need a cage at least 18x18x18 inches for a single bird, with horizontal bars for climbing. Their diet consists primarily of high-quality seed mix supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits, and cuttlebone for calcium.
Pro Tip: Budgies can learn dozens of words and phrases. Males typically talk more readily than females, though individual personality matters most.
2. Cockatiel
The cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus) ranks as Australia’s second-most popular parrot export and requires no permit in New Jersey for standard color mutations. These crested birds measure 12-13 inches from head to tail and can live 15-25 years with excellent care.
Cockatiels bond deeply with their owners and express affection through whistling, head bobbing, and gentle nibbling. Males are the vocal performers, often learning to whistle entire songs, while females tend toward quieter chirping. Provide a cage at least 24x18x24 inches with multiple perches at varying heights. Their diet should include pellets as the base (60-70%), supplemented with seeds, fresh greens, and occasional treats like millet spray.
These birds need daily out-of-cage time for exercise and mental stimulation. Their gentle temperament makes them excellent choices for families, though they do produce powder down that requires regular cleaning.
3. Peafowl
Peafowl—including the iconic Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus)—can be kept in New Jersey without a permit, as they’re classified as ornamental birds rather than wildlife. Male peacocks display their spectacular 5-foot tail fans during breeding season, while the smaller peahens sport more subdued brown plumage.
These large birds require substantial outdoor space, ideally at least 80-100 square feet per bird in a secure enclosure. They’re remarkably hardy and can tolerate New Jersey winters if provided with a draft-free shelter. Peafowl are ground feeders that eat a diet of game bird feed, supplemented with insects, fruits, and vegetables.
Important Note: Peacocks produce loud, far-carrying calls, especially during breeding season (spring and summer). Check local noise ordinances and discuss plans with neighbors before bringing home peafowl.
4. House Finch and Canary Types
House finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) and various canary breeds (Serinus canaria domestica) offer delightful song and color without requiring permits in New Jersey. These small birds measure 5-6 inches and live 10-15 years in captivity.
Canaries are prized for their melodious singing, with male canaries producing the most impressive vocal performances. Popular varieties include the yellow American Singer, the frilled Gloster, and the red-factor canary. House finches, meanwhile, bring natural charm with their cheerful warbling and rosy-red plumage on males.
Both species thrive in flight cages at least 24 inches wide, as they’re active fliers rather than climbers. Provide multiple perches, a shallow bird bath, and a diet of high-quality finch or canary seed mix with fresh greens. Unlike parrots, these birds don’t typically bond with humans but make wonderful aviary birds for those who prefer observation over interaction.
5. Mice
Common house mice (Mus spp.) make surprisingly engaging pets and require no permit in New Jersey. These tiny rodents measure just 3-4 inches (excluding tail) and live 1.5-3 years.
Mice are highly social and should be kept in same-sex groups of at least two to prevent loneliness. Females cohabitate peacefully, while males may fight unless raised together from weaning. A 10-gallon tank or larger wire cage provides adequate space for a pair, with deep bedding for burrowing, hideaways, and an exercise wheel.
These intelligent creatures can learn their names and simple tricks through positive reinforcement. Feed a commercial mouse pellet diet supplemented with small amounts of fresh vegetables, whole grains, and occasional protein sources like mealworms. Their curious, active nature makes them entertaining to observe, especially during their peak activity periods at dawn and dusk.
6. Rats
Pet rats (Rattus spp.), particularly fancy rats bred for temperament, rank among the most intelligent rodents you can own in New Jersey without a permit. These sociable animals measure 9-11 inches (excluding tail) and live 2-3 years.
Rats are remarkably trainable and can learn to come when called, navigate mazes, and even perform tricks like fetching small objects. They thrive on human interaction and bond closely with their owners, often riding on shoulders or snuggling in pockets. Keep rats in same-sex pairs or groups in a multi-level wire cage at least 24x12x12 inches with solid platforms to prevent foot injuries.
Provide a varied diet of lab blocks or rat pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Their omnivorous nature means they can eat most human foods in moderation, though avoid chocolate, raw beans, and citrus for males. Rats groom themselves constantly and are cleaner than many people assume, making them excellent apartment pets.
Key Insight: Rats are prone to respiratory issues. Use paper-based bedding instead of cedar or pine shavings, which contain harmful aromatic oils.
7. Hamster
The Syrian or golden hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) remains one of the most popular small mammals in New Jersey and requires no permit. These solitary rodents measure 5-7 inches and live 2-3 years.
Unlike other rodents on this list, hamsters must be housed alone as they’re fiercely territorial and will fight to the death if kept together after weaning. Syrian hamsters are the largest and most handleable variety, while dwarf species like Campbell’s and Roborovski hamsters are faster and more skittish.
A 20-gallon tank or appropriately sized bin cage provides adequate floor space, as hamsters are burrowers rather than climbers. Provide 6+ inches of paper-based bedding for tunnel construction, a solid-surface exercise wheel (at least 8 inches for Syrians), and multiple hideaways. Feed a commercial hamster mix with occasional fresh vegetables and protein sources like boiled egg or mealworms.
Hamsters are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active during twilight hours. Waking them during the day can lead to grumpiness and biting, so schedule interaction for evening hours when they naturally emerge.
8. Gerbil
The Mongolian gerbil (Meriones mongolinensis) offers an active, entertaining pet option in New Jersey without requiring a permit. These desert-adapted rodents measure 4 inches (plus a 4-inch tail) and live 3-4 years.
Gerbils are social animals that should be kept in same-sex pairs or groups, preferably introduced before 8 weeks of age. A 20-gallon tank with a secure mesh lid provides adequate space for a pair, with 6+ inches of bedding for their signature digging and tunneling behavior. Unlike other rodents, gerbils produce minimal odor and small amounts of urine, making cage maintenance easier.
These energetic animals are incredibly active during waking hours, constantly digging, chewing, and rearranging their environment. Provide chew toys, cardboard tubes, and wooden blocks to satisfy their need to gnaw. Feed a commercial gerbil mix based on seeds and grains, supplemented occasionally with fresh vegetables and protein sources.
Their curious, friendly nature makes them excellent pets for older children, though their speed and agility mean they require careful handling to prevent escapes.
9. Guinea Pig
The guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) brings gentle companionship and requires no permit in New Jersey. These vocal South American rodents measure 8-10 inches and live 5-7 years, making them a longer-term commitment than smaller rodents.
Guinea pigs are herd animals that absolutely require companionship—either from other guinea pigs or through extensive daily human interaction. A pair needs at least 10.5 square feet of cage space, with many owners opting for C&C (cubes and coroplast) cages that provide ample room. Unlike other rodents, guinea pigs cannot synthesize vitamin C and require daily supplementation through fresh vegetables high in this nutrient.
These “cavies” communicate through an impressive range of vocalizations, from excited “wheeks” at feeding time to gentle purring when content. Popular breeds include the smooth-coated American, the long-haired Peruvian, and the adorable tufted Abyssinian. Provide unlimited timothy hay, high-quality guinea pig pellets, and a daily cup of fresh vegetables per pig.
Common Mistake: Never house guinea pigs with rabbits despite their similar size. Rabbits can seriously injure guinea pigs through rough play and carry bacteria harmful to cavies.
10. Pygmy Goats
Pygmy goats (Capra hircus) can be kept in New Jersey and are classified as agricultural livestock under P.L. 1994, which means they don’t require an exotic animal permit. These miniature goats stand just 16-23 inches tall at the shoulder and live 10-15 years.
These highly social herd animals require at least one companion—never keep a single goat. They need substantial outdoor space (at least 200 square feet per goat) with strong fencing at least 4 feet high, as goats are notorious escape artists and climbers. Provide a three-sided shelter for protection from rain and wind, access to fresh water, and a diet of grass hay, browse, and goat-specific mineral supplements.
Pygmy goats are intelligent, playful, and can be trained to walk on a leash. However, they’re also mischievous and will test fences, eat landscaping, and vocalize loudly when seeking attention. Check local zoning ordinances before acquiring goats, as many municipalities have restrictions on livestock within residential areas.
11. Iguana
The common iguana (Iguana iguana) can be kept in New Jersey without a permit and grows into an impressive reptile requiring significant space and commitment. Hatchlings measure just 6-8 inches, but adults reach 5-7 feet in length and can live 15-20 years with proper care.
These herbivorous lizards require substantial enclosures—adults need custom cages at least 12x6x6 feet with strong branches for climbing and basking. Maintain temperatures between 75-85°F with a basking spot reaching 95-100°F, along with UVB lighting for 10-12 hours daily to prevent metabolic bone disease. Feed a diet of dark leafy greens, squash, green beans, and occasional fruits, avoiding spinach and high-protein foods.
Young iguanas often appear docile, but many become territorial and aggressive as they mature, especially males during breeding season. They can deliver powerful tail whips and serious bites. Regular handling from a young age and proper husbandry help maintain a manageable temperament, but potential owners should research thoroughly before committing to these demanding reptiles.
12. Boa Constrictor
The boa constrictor (Constrictor constrictor), commonly called the red-tailed boa, can be kept in New Jersey without a permit despite its impressive size. These non-venomous constrictors grow 6-10 feet long and live 20-30 years, making them a serious long-term commitment.
Hatchlings can start in 20-gallon enclosures, but adults require custom cages at least 6x2x2 feet with secure locks, as boas are surprisingly strong. Maintain a temperature gradient of 78-85°F with a basking spot at 90°F, and provide a large water dish for soaking. Feed appropriately sized frozen-thawed rodents every 7-14 days, increasing prey size as the snake grows.
Boas are generally docile and handleable when properly socialized, making them popular among snake enthusiasts. However, their size means they require two-person handling once they exceed 6 feet. These snakes are ambush predators with strong feeding responses, so always use feeding tongs rather than offering food by hand to prevent accidental bites.
Pro Tip: Purchase captive-bred boas from reputable breeders rather than wild-caught imports. Captive-bred individuals are healthier, better tempered, and free from parasites common in wild-caught specimens.
13. Snapping Turtle
The common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) can be kept in New Jersey, though regulations surrounding native species can be complex. These powerful aquatic turtles grow 8-18 inches in carapace length and live 30-50 years in captivity.
Snappers are best suited for experienced reptile keepers due to their aggressive nature and powerful bite. Adults need at least a 120-gallon aquarium or outdoor pond with excellent filtration, as they’re messy eaters and heavy waste producers. Maintain water temperatures between 75-80°F with a basking area reaching 90-95°F, though snappers spend most of their time underwater.
Feed a varied diet of commercial turtle pellets, fish, insects, and aquatic plants. These omnivores have voracious appetites and grow quickly on high-protein diets. Handle with extreme caution by grasping the rear of the shell near the tail—never attempt to pick up a snapping turtle by the front, as their long necks allow them to reach backward and deliver a serious bite.
Their primitive appearance and fascinating behavior make them intriguing display animals, but they’re not pets for handling or interaction. Check with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection before acquiring a native snapping turtle to ensure compliance with collection regulations.
14. Garter Snake
Several garter snake species (Thamnophis spp.) are native to New Jersey and can be kept without a permit in some cases, though regulations vary depending on the specific species and whether the snake was wild-caught or captive-bred. These slender snakes measure 18-26 inches on average and live 10-15 years in captivity.
Garter snakes are among the most beginner-friendly snakes available, with generally calm dispositions and manageable size. A 20-gallon tank suits most adults, with a temperature gradient of 75-85°F, a shallow water dish, and multiple hiding spots. Unlike many snakes, garters are active during the day and entertaining to observe.
These snakes are primarily carnivorous, feeding on earthworms, small fish, and occasionally pinky mice. Some keepers successfully train their garters to accept frozen-thawed fish fillets, making feeding simpler than with rodent-eating snakes. Garter snakes may musk when handled (releasing a foul-smelling secretion), but this defensive behavior typically diminishes with regular gentle handling.
Important Note: Before acquiring any garter snake in New Jersey, verify with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection that the specific species and source (wild-caught versus captive-bred) comply with current regulations. Never remove snakes from the wild without proper permits.
Understanding New Jersey’s Exotic Pet Regulations
New Jersey operates under a permit system that balances exotic pet ownership with public safety and environmental protection. The state prohibits certain animals outright—including primates, bears, non-domestic cats and canids, and venomous reptiles—while allowing many other species with proper documentation.
Most exotic animals require an Individual Hobby Wildlife Species Possession Permit, which costs approximately $20 for small animals and $50 for larger species. The application asks for basic information including your veterinarian, the animal’s diet, and intended housing. Pet owners must purchase exotic animals from USDA-licensed breeders or reputable dealers—never from the wild. Taking wild animals from their natural habitat carries hefty fines of $500 or more.
Permits expire on December 31st each year and must be renewed through the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife Program. The good news? One permit covers multiple animals, so you don’t need separate permits for each individual pet.
Some animals on this list are specifically exempt from permit requirements because they’re either common pet trade species or classified as agricultural livestock. Always verify current regulations with the NJ DEP before acquiring any exotic pet, as laws can change and local municipalities may have additional restrictions beyond state requirements.
Making the Right Choice for Your Situation
Choosing an exotic pet requires honest assessment of your living situation, time availability, and long-term commitment. Small mammals like mice, rats, and hamsters suit apartment dwellers and offer shorter commitments of 2-3 years, while reptiles and larger animals require substantial space and can live decades.
Consider your experience level carefully. Budgies, cockatiels, and garter snakes make excellent first exotic pets with manageable care requirements and gentle temperaments. Meanwhile, iguanas, snapping turtles, and pygmy goats demand advanced knowledge, specialized housing, and significant financial investment.
Budget beyond the initial purchase price. Exotic pets need species-appropriate enclosures, heating and lighting equipment, veterinary care from exotic animal specialists, and ongoing food costs. A $20 budgie might seem affordable until you factor in a $150 cage, $100 annual vet visits, and daily food costs.
Research thoroughly before committing. Join online communities, read care guides from reputable sources, and connect with current owners to understand the daily reality of exotic pet ownership. The novelty of an unusual pet wears off quickly if you’re unprepared for the care requirements.
Most importantly, obtain your exotic pets from responsible, legal sources. Reputable breeders provide healthy animals with proper documentation, offer care guidance, and stand behind their animals. This protects both you and the animals while supporting ethical practices in the exotic pet trade.
