No, owning a kangaroo in Canada is illegal under federal and provincial wildlife protection laws, with exceptions only for licensed zoos, research facilities, or wildlife sanctuaries. The Species at Risk Act (SARA) and provincial regulations, such as Ontario’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, prohibit private ownership of exotic wildlife, including marsupials. Enforcement is stringent, with penalties reaching up to $200,000 CAD under SARA for unauthorized possession. Recent 2026 amendments to the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (WAPPRIITA) further restrict cross-border movement of live specimens, aligning with CITES obligations.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Canada
- Federal Prohibitions: The Species at Risk Act (SARA) classifies kangaroos as protected wildlife, banning private ownership. Only federally licensed institutions may hold them under strict permits.
- Provincial Bans: Provinces like British Columbia (Wildlife Act) and Alberta (Wildlife Act) explicitly prohibit exotic pet ownership, with enforcement by conservation officers.
- Permit Exceptions: Wildlife rehabilitation centers or accredited zoos may obtain permits from the Canadian Wildlife Service, but these are rarely granted for private individuals.