If you’ve been thinking about bringing a sugar glider home in Utah, the short answer is yes — state law generally allows it. But the longer answer involves local ordinances, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, and a few details that are easy to overlook until it’s too late.
Sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps) are small, nocturnal marsupials native to Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. They have become increasingly popular as pets due to their unique appearance and sociable nature. Before you commit to ownership, though, you need a clear picture of what Utah law requires — and what your city or county may prohibit on top of that.
Is It Legal to Own a Sugar Glider in Utah?
Sugar gliders are legal to own as pets in most U.S. states, and Utah is included among those states where ownership is permitted. That said, legality at the state level does not automatically mean you can keep one anywhere in Utah without restriction.
Sugar gliders are not currently protected by any national laws or import restrictions, but exotic pet ownership is regulated at the state, county, or city level, so you need to check your specific jurisdiction. Utah is a good example of exactly why that matters — the state says yes, but at least one major city says no…