Am I allowed to keep reptiles or exotic pets in Norway?
Yes, but only for a few species. Since 2017 it has been legal to keep 19 named reptile species in Norway — such as royal python, kingsnake, bearded dragon and leopard gecko — while all other exotic animal-keeping is banned. The animal and both parents must be captive-bred; wild-caught animals are not allowed. 12 of the 19 species need a CITES permit, and each animal must carry a species-and-origin document for life. Only 3 turtle species are legal, so "water turtles" as a group is not permitted. Illegal animals are seized and usually euthanised.
📋 The rules
- Legal to keep 19 named reptile species (since 2017)
- The animal and both parents must be captive-bred
- 12 of 19 species need a CITES permit
- Each animal must have a species-and-origin document
- Only 3 turtle species are legal
🔓 Exceptions
- Turtles in Norway since before 1 January 1977 may be kept
- Turtles with a previously granted dispensation may be kept
- Otherwise no dispensation is given for other exotic animals
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Illegal exotic animals are seized by the Food Authority, police or customs and usually euthanised. Breaches are enforced under the Animal Welfare Act with a fine or prison.
📎 Official sources
- Food Authority · Permitted reptiles →
- Exotic Animals Regulation · Lovdata →
- Environment Agency · CITES →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I keep a snake or lizard?
Yes, if it is one of the 19 permitted reptile species, such as royal python, bearded dragon or leopard gecko.
How many reptile species are legal?
19 named species. All other exotic animal-keeping is banned in Norway.
Must the reptile be captive-bred?
Yes. The animal and both parents must be captive-bred; wild-caught animals are not allowed.
Do I need a permit?
12 of the 19 species need a CITES permit, and each animal must have a species-and-origin document.
What happens to illegal animals?
They are seized by the Food Authority, police or customs and usually euthanised.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “can I keep reptiles norway”
- “19 permitted reptile species”
- “exotic animals banned norway”
- “cites permit reptile”
- “keep snake legal norway”
- “turtle legal norway”