Is it legal to own a ferret in Massachusetts?
The short answer
Ferrets are legal in Massachusetts, which lifted its long-standing ban in 1996. The domestic ferret appears on the MassWildlife exemption list (321 CMR 9.02), so no possession permit is needed. Massachusetts rabies law requires ferrets to be vaccinated like dogs and cats.
What Massachusetts law says
321 CMR 9.02's exemption list includes the domestic ferret, removing it from the wildlife possession-permit requirement of M.G.L. c.131 §23; M.G.L. c.140 §145B requires rabies vaccination for dogs, cats, and ferrets.
Which agency regulates ferrets in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) is the authority for ferret (Mustela putorius furo) possession in Massachusetts.
Is there a permit for pet ferrets?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
Keeping an unvaccinated ferret violates the rabies statute and can bring fines; ownership itself carries no penalty.
Local city and county rules
Boston and other municipalities may add licensing or housing rules for pets.
Legal alternatives in Massachusetts
- Hedgehog in Massachusetts — The African pygmy hedgehog — a palm-sized insectivore, hugely popular and famously banned in a handful of states.
Frequently asked questions
When did ferrets become legal in Massachusetts?
In 1996, when the state ended its ban and placed the domestic ferret on the 321 CMR 9.02 exemption list, subject to rabies vaccination requirements.
Sources
More animals in Massachusetts
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Massachusetts?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Massachusetts?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Massachusetts?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Massachusetts page, or compare every state on the pet ferret laws by state page.
Last verified 2026-07-13 against the cited primary sources. This is a research directory, not legal advice — confirm current rules with Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.