Northeast · NJ
Are hedgehogs legal in New Jersey?
Hedgehogs are legal in New Jersey but require an Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Species Possession Permit.
Status
Permit required· Permit application required
What the law says in New Jersey
New Jersey classifies African pygmy hedgehogs as exotic species requiring a state permit for possession. The Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Species Possession Permit is issued by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife. The application process is meaningful — expect to provide cage and care details — and there's an annual fee.
Permit requirements
Apply through NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife for the Exotic and Nongame Species Possession Permit before acquiring a hedgehog. Allow several weeks for processing. The permit is renewable annually for a fee.
Where to verify
Always verify the current legal status before purchasing a hedgehog. Laws change, and local municipal codes can add restrictions on top of state law.
New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife: www.nj.gov/dep/fgw
Common questions
Common questions
Is the New Jersey hedgehog permit easy to get?
Not difficult, but it's a real application — provide what they ask for. Allow several weeks for processing.
Related on this site
Notice anything wrong? Laws change and we miss things. Email hello@myhedgehogcare.com with a link to the source and we’ll update within a week.
We are not lawyers. This page is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify with the relevant state agency before acquiring a pet.