Is it legal to own a sugar glider in Delaware?
The short answer
Yes. The sugar glider is on Delaware's list of exempt exotics, so you can own one without a Dept. of Agriculture permit. It's named alongside hedgehogs, chinchillas, and ferrets. Just check your county/town rules, which can still add restrictions.
What Delaware law says
Under 3 Del. Admin. Code 903 §6.1.1, sugar gliders are expressly exempt from the exotic-animal permit requirement of 3 Del. C. Ch. 72, so no state permit is needed.
Which agency regulates sugar gliders in Delaware
Delaware Dept. of Agriculture, Poultry & Animal Health is the authority for sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) possession in Delaware.
Is there a permit for pet sugar gliders?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
None for lawful possession of an exempt species.
Local city and county rules
Counties and towns may add their own rules, so verify local ordinances before acquiring.
Legal alternatives in Delaware
- Fennec Fox in Delaware — The world's smallest fox — and one of the few foxes legal to own in several U.S. states.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Delaware permit for a sugar glider?
No — sugar gliders are on the Dept. of Agriculture's exempt-exotics list.
Are there any local catches?
Possibly — check your county and town, since local ordinances can still restrict exotic pets.
Sources
More animals in Delaware
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Delaware?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Delaware?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Delaware?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Delaware page, or compare every state on the pet sugar glider 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 Delaware Dept. of Agriculture, Poultry & Animal Health and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.