NH state regulations

Aquarium fish legality in New Hampshire

Restricted + banned species, permits required, and regulatory contact. Updated May 2026.

Reviewed by the Fast Aquatics editorial team · Updated May 2026

Restricted + prohibited species in New Hampshire

Aquarium species legal.

Regulatory agency

New Hampshire Fish and Game

Official website: https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/

Always check the New Hampshire Fish and Game restricted-species list before any aquarium livestock purchase. Lists update regularly and federal Lacey Act listings apply on top of state rules.

Frequently asked questions about New Hampshire aquarium law

Are piranhas legal in New Hampshire?

Piranhas are not specifically banned in New Hampshire, but always confirm with New Hampshire Fish and Game before purchase.

Are snakeheads legal in New Hampshire?

No, all Channa (snakehead) species are illegal in New Hampshire.

Do I need a permit to keep aquarium fish in New Hampshire?

Most common aquarium species do NOT require a permit in New Hampshire. Aquarium species legal. Always check the New Hampshire Fish and Game website for the current restricted-species list before purchase.

Where can I check the official restricted-species list for New Hampshire?

The official source is the New Hampshire Fish and Game: https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/. State lists update regularly - check before any purchase.

Can I ship fish from another state to New Hampshire?

Yes, most aquarium species ship freely between states. Restricted species (snakeheads, piranhas where banned) cannot ship into New Hampshire. Vetted Fast Aquatics vendors filter to your state automatically.

Shop New Hampshire-legal aquarium livestock on Fast Aquatics

Fast Aquatics vendors filter inventory automatically by your shipping state - you'll only see species legal to ship to NH. Browse saltwater, freshwater, coral, or aquatic plants with carrier-tracked Buyer Protection on every order.

Other state legality pages

Browse the full state legality matrix covering all 50 US states + DC.