No, ferret ownership remains illegal in New Jersey under the state’s 1939 Wild Animal Regulation statute, which classifies ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) as prohibited species. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) enforces this ban, citing ecological and public safety concerns. Recent 2026 legislative proposals to reclassify ferrets as domestic pets have stalled due to opposition from wildlife conservation groups, leaving the prohibition intact.
Key Regulations for Owning a Ferret in New Jersey
- Prohibited Species Status: Ferrets are explicitly listed under N.J.A.C. 7:25-5.1 as “wild animals,” making their private possession unlawful without a special permit, which is rarely granted.
- Enforcement by NJDEP: The NJDEP’s Division of Fish and Wildlife actively investigates illegal ferret ownership, with violations punishable by fines up to $2,500 and potential confiscation under N.J.S.A. 23:4-23.
- Local Ordinance Overlaps: Municipalities like Jersey City and Newark have reinforced state bans with additional ordinances, further restricting ferret possession through animal control agencies.