Is it legal to own a sugar glider in North Dakota?
The short answer
Yes. Sugar gliders are one of the few exotic mammals North Dakota exempts by name - NDAC 48.1-09-01-02(4) lists them alongside gerbils, hamsters, and guinea pigs as exempt from importation permits and nontraditional-livestock requirements. No license, no health certificate, no paperwork (unless the state veterinarian invokes a disease concern).
What North Dakota law says
NDAC 48.1-09-01-02(4)(i) exempts sugar gliders from the importation permit and certificate-of-veterinary-inspection requirements that apply to other nontraditional livestock.
Which agency regulates sugar gliders in North Dakota
North Dakota Department of Agriculture - State Board of Animal Health is the authority for sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) possession in North Dakota.
Is there a permit for pet sugar gliders?
No permit is required at the state level. The state veterinarian may impose requirements if a disease or safety concern arises.
Penalties and enforcement
None for lawful possession.
Local city and county rules
Standard caveat: a few cities define exotic pets broadly in local ordinances - confirm with your city.
Frequently asked questions
Do sugar gliders need a North Dakota import permit?
No. They are on the express exemption list in NDAC 48.1-09-01-02(4), so no import permit or health certificate is required in normal circumstances.
Sources
More animals in North Dakota
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in North Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a monkey in North Dakota?
- Is it legal to own a serval in North Dakota?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in North Dakota 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 North Dakota Department of Agriculture - State Board of Animal Health and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.