⚖️ Where Are Snakes Legal? A State-by-State Guide
Snakes are amazing pets — but they're not legal everywhere. Here's where snakes are banned or restricted in the US, Canada, and around the world. Laws change and cities add their own rules, so always confirm with your state, province, and city before bringing one home.
US states with bans or restrictions
- Hawaii — Snakes are banned or restricted here; check current law before getting one.
Other countries with bans or restrictions
- New Zealand — Snakes are banned or restricted here; check current law before getting one.
- Iceland — Snakes are banned or restricted here; check current law before getting one.
- Singapore — Snakes are banned or restricted here; check current law before getting one.
🏙️ City rules: Snakes are banned outright in Hawaii, New Zealand, Iceland, and Singapore to protect native birds and wildlife. Many U.S. states and cities also restrict large constrictors and venomous species — always check before getting one.
Everywhere else
In places not listed above, snakes are generally legal to keep as pets — but counties and cities sometimes add their own restrictions, and a few places require permits. A quick call to local animal control (or a search for "snake laws" plus your city) is always worth it before you fall in love with one.