Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Arkansas?
The short answer
No, not currently. The fennec fox appears on none of Arkansas's captive-wildlife lists (unrestricted, permit-required, or prohibited), and any unlisted species is prohibited until AGFC evaluates it. The agency has signaled it may reconsider fennec foxes in the future.
What Arkansas law says
Under AGFC Addendum R1.01(C), species not listed in R1.01, R1.02, or R1.03 are prohibited until evaluated; the fennec fox (Vulpes zerda) is absent from all three, so it is not currently allowed.
Which agency regulates fennec foxes in Arkansas
Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is the authority for fennec fox (Vulpes zerda) possession in Arkansas.
Is there a permit for pet fennec foxes?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership. Owners can request a species evaluation from AGFC to seek approval.
Penalties for owning a fennec fox illegally
Possessing an unevaluated/unlisted species violates AGFC code and can bring fines and seizure.
Local city and county rules
Even if AGFC later approves fennec foxes, local ordinances may still restrict them.
Legal alternatives in Arkansas
- Sugar Glider in Arkansas — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
- Serval in Arkansas — A tall African wildcat, popular in the exotic cat trade and the parent breed of the Savannah cat.
Frequently asked questions
Are fennec foxes legal in Arkansas?
Not currently — they are unlisted and therefore prohibited until AGFC evaluates the species.
Sources
More animals in Arkansas
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Arkansas?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Arkansas?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Arkansas?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Arkansas page, or compare every state on the pet fennec fox laws by state page.
Last verified 2026-07-03 against the cited primary sources. This is a research directory, not legal advice — confirm current rules with Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.