New York

Ferret ownership is LEGAL statewide in New York, but SOME CITIES OR COUNTIES BAN ferrets. Verify your specific locality before acquiring a ferret.

New York: Rabies vaccination required. Spay/neuter is not required by state law in New York, though it is strongly recommended.

Health certificate required for interstate transport

Ferrets are banned in all five boroughs of New York City under NYC Health Code Section 161.01. Violations can result in fines and confiscation of the animal. The ban has been in effect since 1999, and multiple attempts to overturn it have failed, most recently upheld by the NYC Board of Health.

NYC Health Code § 161.01 classifies ferrets as 'wild, ferocious, fierce, dangerous or naturally inclined to do harm.' 2015 Board of Health vote to lift the NYC ban did not pass. The ban has been reaffirmed multiple times since 1999.

NYC Board of Health reaffirmed the citywide ferret ban despite ongoing legalization efforts by advocacy groups.

For the most current ferret ownership laws in New York, visit the official source at https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/zoonoses/rabies/guidance.htm. Laws and enforcement can vary by county and city, so also check with your local animal control.