Rhode Island
Turtle possession, collection, and commercial regulations for Rhode Island, as researched by Nauti-Lass Ponds & Critters.
Rhode Island 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
- Diamondback Terrapin
- Eastern Box Turtle
- Painted Turtle
- Snapping Turtle
- Spotted Turtle
- Wood Turtle
Law Summary
SUMMARY OF RHODE ISLAND TURTLE LAWS
POSSESSION
1. All species of turtles can be kept without a permit except endangered species, the red-eared slider turtle, the Argentina or Chaco tortoise, gopher tortoise and pancake tortoises.
2. The sale of native wildlife is not allowed in Rhode Island.
3. The following species of turtles to include their nests and eggs are protected and possession without permit is prohibited at all times: northern diamondback terrapin, Malaclemys terrapin; wood turtle, Clemmys insculpta; eastern box turtle, Terrapene Carolina; spotted turtle, Clemmys guttata; and bog turtle, Clemmys muhlenbergi.
4. The release into the wild of any non-native reptile is prohibited.
5. Possession of Red Eared Slider turtles is unlawful.
TAKING FROM THE WILD
1. The removal from the wild, for any purpose, of any reptile, except snapping turtles, to include their nests and eggs is prohibited except by special permit.
2. The taking of snapping turtles at any time is limited to turtles with a minimum carapace length of 12 inches and by the following methods: Turtle traps, snagging, snaring, grabbing, jugging, bow and arrow, or while legally fishing.
COMMERCIAL
1. The sale of native wildlife is not allowed in Rhode Island.
2. The taking of snapping turtles for commercial purposes is prohibited except by special permit.