Yes, owning a pet fox in Taiwan is permitted only under strict conditions.
Under Taiwan’s Wildlife Conservation Act and local municipal ordinances, native and non-native fox species may be kept as pets if sourced from licensed breeders and accompanied by proper documentation. The Council of Agriculture (COA) enforces these rules, and recent amendments in 2026 have tightened import permits for exotic species, requiring applicants to prove conservation necessity or educational value. Violations risk confiscation, fines up to NT$2 million, or imprisonment for up to two years under the Wildlife Conservation Act.
Key Regulations for Owning a Pet Fox in Taiwan
- Permit Requirements: A wildlife conservation permit from the COA is mandatory for non-native species. Native foxes (e.g., Vulpes vulpes subspecies) are protected and cannot be privately owned.
- Source Restrictions: Foxes must originate from COA-approved breeding facilities or international zoos with CITES documentation. Wild-caught specimens are strictly prohibited.
- Housing Standards: Local governments (e.g., Taipei City or New Taipei City) enforce enclosure specifications, including minimum space (e.g., 6m² for adult foxes), escape-proof materials, and veterinary inspection certificates renewed annually.