The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources regulates aquarium fish imports and sales. Certain invasive species such as Asian carp are restricted.
Most common aquarium fish are legal, but always confirm with ADCNR before importing or selling across state lines.
Arizona Game and Fish restricts species that could thrive in desert waters. Piranhas and tilapia are prohibited without permits.
Summary: Arkansas bans invasive fish from trade or transport. Common aquarium species are fine, but always check before importing unusual stock.
Notes: Rules change over time and may vary by locality. Always verify current lists, permits, and any disease/health requirements with the state’s official agency before buying, selling, or shipping.
Official resource (search .gov)
Summary: California enforces some of the nation’s toughest aquarium laws. Snakeheads, piranhas, and mitten crabs are prohibited statewide.
Official resource (search .gov)
The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department regulates live fish sales to prevent invasive species from entering waterways.
Most common aquarium species are legal, but restricted fish like snakeheads and piranhas are banned.
The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection manages rules for aquarium fish imports.
Common aquarium fish are permitted, but exotic invasive species are prohibited without permits.
The Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife oversees aquarium fish laws. While most common species are allowed, invasive or predatory species may be restricted.
Always confirm import or resale rules when ordering from out of state.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has some of the most detailed aquarium fish regulations in the U.S. due to the state’s invasive species challenges.
Species like snakeheads, piranhas, and walking catfish are prohibited. Permits may be needed for breeding and selling certain exotics.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources oversees aquarium fish laws. Invasive species such as snakeheads are banned, and permits may be required for commercial breeders.
Most tropical aquarium fish are allowed, but always check before importing unusual species.
Hawaii enforces some of the strictest aquarium laws in the nation. The Department of Land and Natural Resources regulates importation and collection heavily.
Most live freshwater imports require permits, and collection of native reef species is tightly controlled.
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game regulates aquarium fish imports. Invasive carp and predatory species are prohibited.
Most hobby fish are legal, but interstate sales may require special health certifications.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources manages aquarium fish laws. Snakeheads and other invasive species are banned statewide.
Most tropical freshwater fish are legal, but check IDNR lists before selling or importing less common exotics.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources regulates aquarium fish. Prohibited species include snakeheads and invasive carp.
Commercial breeders may require permits, while most home hobbyists face few restrictions for common tropicals.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources restricts possession of invasive fish species. Most aquarium staples are permitted.
Always confirm regulations before importing less common or exotic fish varieties.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks manages aquarium fish rules. Species with invasive potential, such as snakeheads, are banned.
Most community aquarium fish are allowed, but breeders should verify current restricted species lists.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife regulates exotic fish. Species like snakeheads and Asian carp are illegal.
Common aquarium species are legal, but always verify before importing or breeding unusual fish.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries oversees live fish regulations. Invasive species, such as Asian carp, are prohibited.
Hobby fish are generally permitted, but breeders should check if commercial permits apply.
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife has strict laws due to the state’s cold-water ecosystems. Only approved species may be kept without permits.
Tropical aquarium imports are heavily regulated; always verify with MDIFW before buying or selling.
Maryland Department of Natural Resources regulates possession, sale, and import of live fish to protect the Chesapeake Bay and local waterways. Invasive or predatory species (e.g., snakeheads) are prohibited; permits may apply for certain activities.
Always verify current species lists and transport rules before buying or selling across state lines.
MassWildlife (MA Division of Fisheries & Wildlife) oversees rules on nonnative fish and invasive species. Most community fish are allowed, but restricted species and certain crayfish/invertebrates may be controlled.
Check import/possession guidance and any permit requirements before interstate shipments.
Official resource (MassWildlife)
Michigan DNR manages aquarium species rules with a focus on Great Lakes biosecurity. Prohibited species include snakeheads and select carp; transport and release are strictly regulated.
Breeders and shops should review MDNR guidance for import and sale of exotics.
Minnesota DNR regulates nonnative species and movement of live fish to protect lakes and rivers. Certain invasive species and baitfish are restricted or banned.
Confirm current lists and transport rules before importing or selling.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks regulates possession and sale of aquarium fish. Invasive or injurious species are prohibited; health certifications may apply for certain shipments.
Hobbyists should confirm legality before purchasing uncommon exotics.
Missouri Department of Conservation restricts invasive and harmful species while allowing most standard aquarium fish. Releases to public waters are illegal.
Check MDC guidance for import, sale, and transport rules before ordering fish online.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks closely regulates nonnative fish to protect cold-water ecosystems. Many tropical species are permitted for aquaria but some imports require scrutiny.
Always review FWP rules prior to interstate shipments or sales.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission regulates possession and sale of live fish, emphasizing control of invasive species. Most community fish are legal for aquaria.
Verify restrictions and rules for shipping or commercial breeding.
Nevada Department of Wildlife manages live fish restrictions to prevent introductions into desert waterways. Certain predatory or invasive fish are banned.
Most hobby species are fine for home tanks; confirm rules before importing unusual exotics.
New Hampshire Fish and Game regulates import and possession of live fish to protect native waters. Prohibited/invasive species cannot be kept or sold.
Consult NHFG guidance for current species lists and any permit needs.
NJ Fish & Wildlife (DEP) oversees live fish regulations and prohibits invasive or dangerous species. Most common tropical aquarium fish are permitted for home aquaria.
Verify rules before importing rare exotics or conducting commercial sales.
Official resource (NJ Fish & Wildlife)
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish regulates live fish to prevent invasive species introductions in desert waters. Piranhas, snakeheads, and other injurious species are prohibited.
Most standard aquarium species are legal; breeders should confirm rules for exotic imports or commercial sale.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) prohibits certain invasive aquarium species. Releases to natural waters are illegal and carry penalties.
Most tropical aquarium fish are permitted, but always verify the invasive species list before purchase or resale.
The NC Wildlife Resources Commission manages aquarium fish laws. Prohibited species include snakeheads and invasive carp. Most tropicals are allowed for home use.
Commercial sales may require licenses; always review NCWRC updates before importing fish.
The North Dakota Game and Fish Department regulates live fish transport and possession. Exotic invasive species are banned, but most community aquarium species are permitted.
Review NDGF guidelines before buying or selling fish across state lines.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources oversees aquarium fish laws. Invasive or dangerous species such as snakeheads and Asian carp are illegal.
Most tropicals are allowed; sellers should confirm rules for exotic or uncommon species.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation regulates aquarium fish trade and possession. Prohibited species include snakeheads and certain invasive carp.
Check ODWC guidelines before ordering fish from out-of-state breeders or vendors.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife enforces restrictions on invasive species. Piranhas, snakeheads, and some crayfish are banned.
Common aquarium species are permitted, but import permits may apply for commercial activities.
The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulates aquarium fish imports and sales. Prohibited species include snakeheads and injurious exotics.
Verify PFBC rules for interstate purchases, particularly for uncommon fish species.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management oversees exotic species rules. Most aquarium staples are legal, but invasive or predatory fish are restricted.
Always check DEM guidance before selling or importing rare species.
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources regulates aquarium fish to prevent introductions into local waters. Snakeheads, piranhas, and other invasive species are prohibited.
Most tropical freshwater fish are legal for hobby use; breeders should confirm commercial guidelines.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks regulates aquarium fish imports and possession. Invasive species such as snakeheads and Asian carp are banned statewide.
Most community tropicals are allowed, but breeders should confirm transport rules for uncommon exotics.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency manages live fish laws. Exotic invasive species such as snakeheads and walking catfish are prohibited.
Most standard aquarium species are legal, but breeders may need permits for commercial trade.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department enforces aquarium fish laws. Restricted species include piranhas, tilapia, and grass carp without permits.
Hobbyists may keep most community fish, but breeders must comply with TPWD import/export permits.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources regulates aquarium fish to protect local waters. Prohibited species include snakeheads, invasive carp, and other injurious fish.
Most tropical fish are permitted, but confirm before importing or selling rare exotics.
The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department manages live fish rules to protect native waters. Invasive fish and crayfish species are prohibited.
Community fish are generally allowed, but always verify state import guidance.
The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources oversees aquarium fish laws. Snakeheads are a top concern and are strictly prohibited.
Most tropical aquarium fish are permitted for hobby use; permits may be required for certain species.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulates exotic fish. Snakeheads, invasive carp, and piranhas are prohibited.
Most community species are legal; permits may be required for some imports.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources enforces rules for aquarium fish. Snakeheads and invasive carp are banned.
Most tropical aquarium species are legal, but consult WVDNR for exotic imports.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources restricts invasive species like Asian carp and snakeheads. Many tropical fish are legal for aquarium use.
Always verify state import and transport rules before purchasing uncommon species.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department regulates live fish imports. Invasive fish and crayfish species are prohibited.
Most community fish are permitted; check WGFD guidelines for exotic or rare species.
The Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources oversees aquarium fish regulations. Many tropical exotics require permits; invasive or predatory species are restricted.
Contact DNER before importing or trading aquarium fish into Puerto Rico.
