Antique engraving of a sugar glider

Is it legal to own a sugar glider in Virginia?

VERIFIED 2026-07-03CONFIDENCE: HIGH4VAC15-30-40(H) (not listed)

The short answer

Legal
Not listed — legal under the unlisted-exotics allowance.

Yes. Sugar gliders aren't on Virginia's predatory/undesirable list, so they fall under subsection H: unlisted nonnative animals may be possessed, purchased, and sold.

What Virginia law says

The mammal listings don't reach small marsupials; the catch-all allowance applies.

Which agency regulates sugar gliders in Virginia

No state agency regulates sugar glider (Petaurus breviceps) possession in Virginia — authority rests with local animal control. See the state wildlife agency for related rules.

Is there a permit for pet sugar gliders?

No permit is required at the state level.

Penalties and enforcement

None.

Local city and county rules

Standard local pet rules only.

Frequently asked questions

Any Virginia paperwork for sugar gliders?

None at the state level — they're an unlisted exotic under 4VAC15-30-40(H).

Sources

More animals in Virginia

See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Virginia 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 your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.