No, owning a kangaroo in Romania is illegal under national wildlife protection laws, with no private ownership permits issued. The 2026 amendments to Legea nr. 462/2001 explicitly prohibit exotic species classified as non-domesticated, aligning with EU biodiversity directives. Romanian authorities, including the Ministerul Mediului, Apelor și Pădurilor, enforce strict penalties for violations.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in Romania
- Absolute Prohibition: The Regulamentul privind protecția speciilor sălbatice (2024 update) lists kangaroos under Annex A, banning private possession without exception.
- Enforcement Agencies: The Garda Națională de Mediu and Agenția Națională pentru Protecția Mediului conduct inspections, with confiscations and fines up to €50,000 for violations.
- EU Compliance: Romania’s 2026 alignment with Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (Animal Health Law) reinforces the ban, requiring member states to prohibit non-native species posing ecological risks.
Exotic pet dealers must adhere to Ordinul nr. 1.093/2023, which mandates immediate reporting of illegal kangaroo possession to authorities. Violators face criminal charges under Codul Penal (Art. 268), risking imprisonment for wildlife trafficking.