Yes, owning a pet fox in New Hampshire is legal under specific conditions, but compliance with state and local wildlife regulations is mandatory. The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFGD) permits the private ownership of certain fox species, primarily red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), under a controlled permit system. However, native gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus) are protected and cannot be privately owned. Recent 2026 amendments to NHFGD’s Wildlife Permit Regulations (Chapter Fis 800) tighten record-keeping requirements for exotic pet owners, including mandatory microchipping and annual health inspections by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
Key Regulations for Owning a Pet Fox in New Hampshire
- Permit Requirement: A Wildlife Possession Permit is mandatory for red foxes, issued only to individuals demonstrating adequate housing, veterinary care plans, and compliance with zoonotic disease protocols. Permits are reviewed biennially, with 2026 introducing stricter biosecurity affidavits.
- Species Restrictions: Only non-native red foxes are eligible; native gray foxes are strictly prohibited under RSA 212-A:23. Hybrid foxes (e.g., red fox-gray fox crosses) are automatically disqualified due to genetic ambiguity.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Manchester and Portsmouth enforce additional restrictions, including mandatory liability insurance (minimum $500,000) and proximity limits to residential zones. Violations may trigger fines up to $2,000 under local nuisance ordinances.
Violations of NHFGD or municipal regulations may result in permit revocation, confiscation of the animal, or criminal misdemeanor charges. Prospective owners must consult NHFGD’s Exotic Wildlife Guidelines (2026 ed.) and their local zoning board before acquisition.