No, owning a kangaroo in Brazil is illegal under federal environmental law, as these non-native marsupials are classified as exotic species. The 2026 revisions to IBAMA’s Normative Instruction 03/2014 explicitly prohibit private ownership without special permits, which are nearly impossible to obtain for kangaroos. Violations may result in fines up to R$50,000 or criminal charges under Law 9.605/1998.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Brazil
- IBAMA Authorization: Requires proof of conservation necessity, which kangaroos do not meet as invasive species.
- State-Level Bans: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Paraná enforce stricter municipal ordinances prohibiting exotic pet ownership entirely.
- Zoo/Research Exceptions: Only accredited institutions with IBAMA-approved conservation programs may apply for permits, subject to annual inspections.
Recent 2026 updates to the National Biodiversity Strategy (ENBio) prioritize native species protection, further restricting exotic animal trade. Courts have upheld seizures of illegally held kangaroos, with offenders facing mandatory rehabilitation in IBAMA-licensed facilities. Prospective owners should consult IBAMA’s 2026 compliance checklist before considering any exotic pet.