Squirrels are everywhere in South Carolina — darting through live oaks, raiding bird feeders, and scampering across backyard fences. It is no surprise that some residents wonder whether one could legally share their home with one. The short answer is yes, but the legal path is narrower than most people expect, and the rules carry real consequences if you get them wrong.
South Carolina sits in a gray zone when it comes to squirrel ownership. The state is one of the laxer states when considering exotic pets, but there are rules and regulations that apply. Understanding exactly what those rules are — and where they come from — is the first step before you consider bringing any squirrel home.
Is It Legal to Own a Squirrel in South Carolina?
Under some circumstances, pet squirrels are legal in South Carolina. If the squirrel was taken from the wild in South Carolina, it can legally be kept as a pet. Squirrels may not be imported into South Carolina from other states, meaning you cannot move to South Carolina with a squirrel even if it was born in captivity.
South Carolina classifies squirrels as “game animals.” That classification matters because it places them under the authority of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), not just general animal control. What you can do is apply for a permit to keep a squirrel as a pet through the SCDNR. Keep in mind that the department will first conduct an investigation to ensure that the wild animal in question has been acquired lawfully…