Are Crested Geckos Legal in the US? (State Wise Data)

Crested Geckos, also known as Eyelash Geckos, are highly sought-after reptile pets due to their unique appearance and manageable care needs. However, potential owners must be aware of the legal stipulations that pertain to owning these fascinating creatures. As such, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to thoroughly research, verify, and compile the relevant information on the legality of owning Crested Geckos in different U.S. states.

List of US States Where its Legal to Own a Crested Gecko

Crested Geckos (or Correlophus ciliatus) are broadly legal to own across the majority of the United States, barring a few exceptions. They are typically regarded as non-dangerous exotic pets, and thus, do not require a special permit for ownership.

Here’s a comprehensive list of the states where Crested Gecko ownership is legal and generally unregulated, meaning you do not need a specific permit or license to keep them as pets:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming

States Where a Permit is Required

Below are the states where you need to obtain a permit to keep Crested Geckos:

1. Alaska: In Alaska, most reptiles including Crested Geckos are not allowed as pets. Exceptions might be made with special permits.
2. Georgia: Georgia requires permits for the ownership of most reptiles.

Obtaining a Permit

If you reside in any of the above states and wish to own a Crested Gecko, you need to apply for a permit through your respective state’s department of fish and wildlife or equivalent agency. Keep in mind that the permit application often involves an inspection of the living conditions you will provide for the animal and a nominal fee.

What States are Crested Geckos illegal in?

Again, crested geckos are not typically illegal to own in the majority of the United States. This is because they are not native to the U.S and thus do not pose a threat to local ecosystems if accidentally released. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. While the following information is current to the best of our knowledge, regulations can change, so it is recommended to contact your local Fish and Wildlife Service office or Department of Natural Resources to confirm the current laws for your area.

Hawaii: A Unique Case

In Hawaii, owning crested geckos, along with other reptiles and amphibians, is strictly prohibited. This strict law has been enacted to protect the delicate and unique local ecosystems that could be significantly disrupted by introduced non-native species. It’s crucial to respect these laws, as the introduction of non-native species can cause irreparable harm to native ecosystems.

Disclaimer: Always Double Check

Please note that while we have put a lot of effort into researching this topic, laws and regulations can change, and enforcement may vary from one jurisdiction to another. Therefore, always double-check the latest local regulations before acquiring a crested gecko.

Frequently Asked Question