It is strictly regulated.
Owning a kangaroo in South Africa is prohibited under national biodiversity legislation, with no private exemptions granted. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) enforces the Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004), classifying kangaroos as alien invasive species. Permits for restricted activities are issued only under exceptional circumstances, such as research or conservation programs, with stringent oversight by provincial authorities. Recent 2026 amendments to the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) further tightened controls, aligning with global invasive species protocols. Non-compliance risks severe penalties, including fines up to R10 million or imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in South Africa
- Permit Requirements: The DFFE mandates a Section 20 permit for restricted activities involving kangaroos, which is rarely approved for private ownership. Applications undergo multi-stakeholder review, including input from provincial conservation agencies.
- Provincial Variations: Provincial biodiversity laws (e.g., Western Cape’s Nature Conservation Ordinance) impose additional restrictions, often outright banning possession. Applicants must demonstrate compliance with local bylaws, which may require habitat assessments.
- Invasive Species Classification: Kangaroos are listed under NEMBA’s invasive species regulations, prohibiting their breeding, release, or trade. The 2026 amendments expanded prohibited activities to include private keeping, reflecting heightened biosecurity concerns.