No, owning a kangaroo in Oregon is prohibited under the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s exotic animal regulations, which classify marsupials like kangaroos as restricted species requiring permits. The state enforces a 2023 ban on private possession of non-native wildlife, aligning with 2026 federal wildlife trafficking prevention measures.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Oregon
- Permit Denial: The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) denies permits for kangaroo ownership under OAR 635-044-0100, citing ecological risks and public safety.
- Wildlife Code Violation: Possession violates ORS 496.004, which prohibits keeping native or non-native wildlife without explicit authorization, with penalties up to $2,500 per offense.
- Local Ordinance Synergy: Multnomah and Washington Counties enforce stricter local bans, reinforcing state-level restrictions through municipal animal control ordinances.
Violations trigger mandatory confiscation by ODFW or county authorities, with repeat offenses escalating to misdemeanor charges. Exemptions exist solely for licensed zoos, research facilities, or wildlife rehabilitators under OAR 635-044-0110, subject to annual inspections. The state’s 2026 wildlife trafficking framework further criminalizes interstate transport of restricted species, including kangaroos, without federal approval.