Arkansas offers more flexibility than many states when it comes to exotic pet ownership, but navigating the regulations can feel overwhelming.
Whether you’re drawn to colorful reptiles, unusual small mammals, or native wildlife species, understanding what’s legal and what requires permits will save you from costly mistakes and potential legal trouble.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission oversees most exotic animal regulations, and staying compliant means knowing which species fall under unrestricted, permitted, or prohibited categories.
Examples of Exotic Pets Legal (or More Easily Permitted)
Domestic and Semi-Domesticated Small Animals
You can keep traditional pocket pets without any special permits in Arkansas. Hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, mice, and rats remain popular choices for families and individuals seeking low-maintenance companions. These animals don’t fall under Arkansas Game and Fish Commission regulations since they’re fully domesticated species bred specifically for pet ownership…