The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering changes to regulations that currently allow for collection, possession, breeding, sale, and trade of native reptiles and amphibians (COMAR 08.03.11). The DNR is making the proposed changes to take a proactive approach to address conservation concerns including collection pressure, disease transmission, and illegal trade. Changes will prohibit collection from the wild and limit possession, breeding, sale, and trade except by special permit. To develop the current concepts, the DNR considered expert advice from wildlife veterinarians, scientific studies, and assessments by law enforcement that reflect changes since the reptile and amphibian regulations were last updated in 2016. Public comments providing additional information and perspectives will help refine and finalize this proposal.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on the proposed changes to the native reptile and amphibian regulations. The regulation concepts and FAQs can be found on our Proposed Regs page.