New Hampshire
Turtle possession, collection, and commercial regulations for New Hampshire, as researched by Nauti-Lass Ponds & Critters.
New Hampshire Wildlife AgencyLaws listed here were current as of January 1, 2015. Laws change frequently — always verify with your state's wildlife agency before purchasing or keeping turtles. This is not legal advice.
Native Turtle Species
- Blanding's Turtle
- Common Snapping Turtle
- Painted Turtle
- Spotted Turtle
- Wood Turtle
Law Summary
SUMMARY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE TURTLE LAWS
POSSESSION
1. It is unlawful to possess Blanding's turtles Emydoidea blandingii, Eastern box turtles Terrapene carolina carolina, Spotted turtles Clemmys guttata and Wood turtles Glyptemys insculpta without a permit.
2. Up to 2 specimens of the following species may be possessed without a permit: Musk turtle Sternotherus odoratus, Painted turtle Chrysemys picta and Snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina.
3. Non-living Snapping turtles, Musk Turtles and Painted Turtles raised outside the state may be possessed, bought and sold for use as food provided that with each package there shall be a bill of sale bearing the species, the weight of the package and the place of origin.
4. No person shall sell indigenous species of reptiles or amphibians including parts or eggs thereof.
5. A permit shall be required to import all indigenous reptiles.
6. It is illegal to release any exotic reptiles or any reptiles imported into the state.
7. Reptiles originating outside of New Hampshire must be caged or enclosed, and therefore can not be released to outdoor environments, including pools and ponds, in New Hampshire.
TAKING FROM THE WILD
1. No person shall take any species of indigenous turtle from May 15 to July 15.
2. A fishing license is recommended for take of turtles. Take would be subject to the possession limits above.
COMMERCIAL
1. The reptile and amphibian regulations do not mention commercial take or possession of reptiles. It is therefore assumed commercial activities of native species are not allowed and all the above regulations for individuals apply.