Maryland Proposes Tighter Rules on Native Reptiles

Owners of native turtles, snakes, and frogs should check whether their animals are covered and whether a free grandfather permit applies.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Reptiles

Gouache-painted editorial illustration of a single box turtle on a river stone at a still marsh pond, with soft reeds and autumn leaves on the water. — Maryland's Department of Natural Resources has proposed barring wild collection of native turtles, snakes, and frogs, and restricting their possession and sale, with public comment open through November 27, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should Maryland restrict owning and selling native reptiles and amphibians?

Maryland's Department of Natural Resources has proposed sweeping changes to its rules on native reptiles and amphibians, which would bar taking them from the wild and restrict keeping, breeding, selling, and trading them except by special permit. Public comment is open through November 27, 2026.

Why it matters

For Maryland households that keep a native turtle, snake, or frog, the proposal would tighten what can be possessed, bred, or sold, though current owners could qualify for a free grandfather permit. DNR's rule update is its first since 2016, and it cites collection pressure, disease transmission, and illegal trade as the reasons for acting now.

The proposal covers turtles such as diamondback terrapins and box turtles, plus most native snakes and frogs, and applies only to species native to Maryland. Public comment can be submitted online, by phone, by fax, or in writing.

The players

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Maryland's state agency that manages wildlife, fisheries, and natural resources, and that is proposing the reptile and amphibian rule changes.

The details

Under the draft amendments to COMAR 08.03.11, collecting native reptiles and amphibians from the wild would be prohibited outright. Possession, breeding, sale, and trade would be limited unless a special permit is granted. DNR says it weighed input from wildlife veterinarians, scientific studies, and law enforcement assessments in drafting the changes.

2016: Current reptile and amphibian regulations last updated.
November 6, 2026: Proposed changes published and public comment opens.
November 27, 2026: Public comment period closes.

The Home Front

The proposal follows the 2016 update to Maryland's reptile and amphibian regulations, marking the next revision of the same state framework. It shifts household pet-keeping rules for native wildlife rather than the broader exotic-pet market.

If you currently keep a native Maryland turtle, snake, or frog, check whether your species is covered and look into the free grandfather permit for legal current possessors. Consider submitting a comment before November 27, 2026 if the change affects your household.

The takeaway

If you keep a native Maryland reptile or amphibian, confirm your animal's status under the proposal and keep your documentation of current possession on file. The public comment window closes November 27, 2026, so decide whether to weigh in before then.