No, owning a pet fox in Washington D.C. is prohibited under the District’s public health and wildlife regulations. The D.C. Department of Health’s Animal Services Division enforces strict prohibitions on exotic pets, including foxes, citing risks to public safety and ecosystem disruption. Recent 2026 amendments to the D.C. Municipal Regulations (DCMR) § 22-1005.01 reinforce these restrictions, aligning with broader wildlife conservation policies.
Key Regulations for Owning a Pet Fox in Washington D.C.
- Exotic Pet Ban: DCMR § 22-1005.01 explicitly bans the private possession of foxes, classifying them as “wild animals” under D.C. Code § 8-1801. Violations may result in confiscation or fines up to $2,500.
- Permit Exceptions: Only licensed wildlife rehabilitators, educational institutions, or federally permitted entities may possess foxes, and these permits require proof of specialized facilities and conservation purposes.
- Enforcement by DDOE: The D.C. Department of Energy & Environment (DDOE) collaborates with Animal Services to inspect premises and investigate illegal fox ownership, with penalties escalating for repeat offenses.