This is an overview of state regulations for Louisiana Reptiles & Amphibians

This information does not cover alligators, which may not be possessed or sold by the general public, because they have their own set of regulations. These regulations are for native reptiles, regardless of origin. They do not reflect local ordinances from cities, towns or parishes. Questions should be directed to DWF at www.wlf.state.la.us or 225-765-2999 DWF enforcement line or 225-765-2899 ext. 2815 for reptile information.
  1. You must have a basic fishing license to collect native reptiles & amphibians in Louisiana. Natural habitats such as stumps or logs may not be destroyed while searching for animals. Removal of nesting or nest-tending animals is prohibited. Cost is $9.50 annually for residents. For non-residents it is $5 for one day, $15 for 4 days or $60 annually. (Class 1 violation)
  2. You must have a Collector's License to sell wild caught native reptiles & amphibians to wholesalers and retailers in Louisiana. Cost is $25 for residents and $200 for non-residents. (Class III violation)
  3. You must have a Wholesale/Dealer's License to buy for resale native reptiles & amphibians or to transport them for commercial purposes in or out of state, whether wild caught or captive reared, regardless of generations removed from the wild or geographic origin. Cost is $105 for residents and $405 for non-residents. (Class III violation)
  4. You may not buy or sell box turtles in Louisiana (Class I violation) but you may collect a maximum of 2 per day and may not have more than 4 in your possession, regardless of origin, per person, unless you have a turtle farming license from the LA Dept of Agriculture & Forestry. (Class IV violation).
  5. Bullfrogs & Pigfrogs may be taken year round except April and May. Bullfrogs must be at least 5 inches in length; Pig Frogs must be at least 3 inches. (Class III violation)
  6. Wild-caught alligator snapping turtles and parts thereof may not be bought or sold in Louisiana. (Class II violation) However, there is a daily limit of 1, no total limits, and no size restriction that may be taken under the basic fishing license. However, anybody with a Collector's License, Wholesale Dealer's License or Commercial Fishing License may not possess alligator snappers or parts thereof.
  7. Green anoles under 1¾ inches snout to vent or under 5 inches total length may be collected but not bought or sold. (Class II violation)
  8. Sea turtles, the ringed sawback turtle, gopher tortoise, tiger salamander, red salamander, mud salamander, Webster's salamander and southern red-backed salamander cannot be collected without special state and/or Federal permit.


The LGCHS does not guarantee the accuracy or currency of this information. It was gleaned from Title 76 Part XV of Wildlife & Fisheries and RS 56 of the State of Louisiana. This information is provided for guidance only. It is not intended to be complete or detailed.

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