Is it legal to own a ferret in Minnesota?
The short answer
Ferrets are legal in Minnesota and require no permit. The state's regulated-animal statute covers big cats, bears, and primates only, and domestic ferrets are treated as pets rather than wildlife. Standard rabies and animal-control rules apply.
What Minnesota law says
Minn. Stat. §346.155 restricts possession of 'regulated animals' (large cats, bears, primates); ferrets are not included, and Minnesota DNR does not classify domestic ferrets as wild animals requiring a possession permit.
Which agency regulates ferrets in Minnesota
No state agency regulates ferret (Mustela putorius furo) possession in Minnesota — authority rests with local animal control. See the state wildlife agency for related rules.
Is there a permit for pet ferrets?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
None for ownership; local ordinances govern vaccination and bites.
Local city and county rules
Minneapolis, St. Paul, and suburbs may impose permit or vaccination rules by ordinance.
Legal alternatives in Minnesota
- Hedgehog in Minnesota — The African pygmy hedgehog — a palm-sized insectivore, hugely popular and famously banned in a handful of states.
- Sugar Glider in Minnesota — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Is a ferret a 'regulated animal' in Minnesota?
No. Minn. Stat. §346.155 covers big cats, bears, and primates; ferrets are ordinary pets.
Sources
More animals in Minnesota
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Minnesota?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in Minnesota?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Minnesota?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Minnesota 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 your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.