Axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) are legal to own in most of the United States, but some states regulate their possession or importation.
If you live in one of these states, that doesn't always mean you can't own an axolotl. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain a permit or receive approval before your axolotl is shipped to you.
At Axolotl Superstore, we want every axolotl to go to a home where it can be legally and responsibly kept. This guide explains some of the states with additional requirements and where residents can begin the permit process.
Important: Wildlife regulations can change, and cities or counties may have additional rules. Always confirm current requirements with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before purchasing an axolotl.
Hawaii: Axolotl Import Permit
Good news for Hawaii residents: axolotls aren't simply classified as prohibited animals.
The State of Hawaii specifically lists the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) on its Conditionally Approved Animal List.
That means importing one into Hawaii requires approval from the Hawaii Department of Agriculture's Plant Quarantine Branch.
How to Apply
Hawaii uses Form PQ-7 — Application for Permit to Import Restricted Commodities into Hawaii.
For a conditionally approved animal, the application asks for information including the common and scientific name, number of animals, shipper information, approximate arrival date, method of shipment, intended use, responsible person, safeguards, and disposition plan.
Do not have an axolotl shipped until your required permit has been approved.
New Jersey: Exotic & Nongame Wildlife Hobby Permit
New Jersey regulates the possession of certain exotic and nongame animals through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife.
For regulated animals kept as pets, New Jersey provides an Individual Hobby Permit.
How to Apply
Start with the NJDEP Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Permit program and ask specifically about Ambystoma mexicanum kept as a captive-bred pet.
Obtain any required authorization before placing an order for shipment.
New Mexico: Importation Permit
New Mexico regulates the importation of live non-domesticated animals into the state. Importing a non-domesticated animal generally requires an appropriate permit unless the animal falls within an exempt classification.
Contact the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish before purchasing an axolotl and ask them to confirm the current classification and import requirements for Ambystoma mexicanum.
Do not have an axolotl shipped into New Mexico until the department confirms that you are authorized to receive it.
Maine: More Than a Simple Pet Permit
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife currently lists the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) as a Category 2 Restricted Species.
Maine requires permits for the importation and possession of restricted wildlife, and its rules establish separate Category 2 importation and possession permits.
Because the qualifications and permitted purposes matter, Maine residents should not purchase an axolotl first and attempt to obtain permission afterward.
What Maine Residents Should Do
- Contact the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
- Tell them you are interested in possessing a captive-bred Ambystoma mexicanum as a personal pet.
- Ask whether you qualify for a Category 2 Wildlife Possession Permit.
- Ask whether a separate Category 2 Wildlife Importation Permit will be required for an animal shipped from another state.
- Complete all required applications and receive written approval before arranging shipment.
What About California and Arkansas?
These states shouldn't be confused with the permit states above.
For ordinary pet owners, we do not ship axolotls to California or Arkansas.
A permit or exemption that might exist for a research institution, zoo, government entity, or another specially authorized organization isn't the same as permission for someone to purchase an axolotl as a household pet.
Get Your Permit Before Ordering
If your state requires a permit or import authorization, complete that process before ordering your axolotl.
When contacting your state agency, it can help to provide the animal's complete identification:
Common name: Axolotl
Scientific name: Ambystoma mexicanum
Type: Captive-bred aquatic salamander
Purpose: Personal pet
We're Happy to Help With Your Axolotl Order
If your state requires documentation before an axolotl can be shipped, contact Axolotl Superstore before ordering. We'll work with you to provide reasonable seller or shipment information your state may require.
Please remember: Receiving a permit is not a guarantee that an order can be shipped. Axolotl Superstore must also comply with applicable federal, state, local, carrier, and live-animal shipping requirements in effect at the time of shipment.
Never release an axolotl into the wild.
Last reviewed: August 2026. This article is provided for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Wildlife laws and agency policies can change. Always verify current requirements directly with the appropriate state agency before purchasing or transporting an axolotl.