No, owning a kangaroo in Ohio is prohibited under the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s (ODA) exotic animal regulations, which classify kangaroos as dangerous wild animals. A 2024 ODA rule revision explicitly banned their private ownership, aligning with the state’s broader restrictions on non-native species to mitigate ecological and public safety risks.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Ohio
- ODA Permit Denial: The ODA’s 2024 Dangerous Wild Animal Act amendments explicitly prohibit kangaroo ownership, requiring existing permits to be revoked by 2026.
- Local Enforcement: County humane societies and wildlife agencies actively monitor compliance, with violations subject to fines up to $5,000 or confiscation under Ohio Revised Code § 939.01.
- Zoo/Research Exemptions: Only USDA-licensed facilities (e.g., zoos, research labs) may hold kangaroos, provided they meet stringent enclosure and veterinary standards.
Violations trigger immediate legal action, including potential criminal charges under Ohio’s wildlife trafficking statutes. Prospective owners must verify compliance with the ODA’s Exotic Animal List before acquiring any marsupial species.