Is it legal to own a sugar glider in Louisiana?
The short answer
Yes. Sugar gliders are small non-native marsupials not covered by LAC 76:V.115 or the native-wildlife rules. No state permit is required to keep one as a pet.
What Louisiana law says
La. Admin. Code tit. 76, Pt. V, 115 does not list sugar gliders, and they aren't native wildlife; they are unregulated small exotics statewide.
Which agency regulates sugar gliders in Louisiana
Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is the authority for sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) possession in Louisiana.
Is there a permit for pet sugar gliders?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
None at state level for lawful possession.
Local city and county rules
Some parishes restrict exotic mammals; a quick local check is still wise.
Legal alternatives in Louisiana
- Serval in Louisiana — A tall African wildcat, popular in the exotic cat trade and the parent breed of the Savannah cat.
- Fennec Fox in Louisiana — The world's smallest fox — and one of the few foxes legal to own in several U.S. states.
Frequently asked questions
Are sugar gliders legal in Louisiana?
Yes. They aren't on any prohibited list and need no state permit.
Any parish concerns?
A few parishes restrict exotics broadly, so confirm your local ordinance.
Sources
- Exotic Pets Legal in Louisiana (Animal of Things)
- What Exotic Pets Are Legal in Louisiana (Exotic Pet Wonderland)
More animals in Louisiana
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Louisiana?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Louisiana?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Louisiana?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Louisiana 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 Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.