Legislation Regarding Turtles in British Columbia (Canada)

Justin DeMerchant, Executive Director of the Okanagan Turtle Adoption Program and Bachelor of Anthropology and Environmental Sciences from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, together with attorney Luana Arakaki, member of Arakaki & Gargamala Associate Lawyers, specializing in international contracts, negotiation, and real estate law, present an analysis of the legal framework governing turtle ownership in British Columbia, Canada.

This study aims to clarify recurring misconceptions regarding the legality of keeping turtles as pets, particularly the Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans), and to identify which species may be lawfully possessed under current provincial regulations. It is important to highlight that misunderstanding or misinterpreting the applicable legislation can lead to undesirable legal consequences, environmental impacts, and the abandonment of animals.

A proper understanding of the relevant legal rules is therefore essential for pet owners, legal professionals, and wildlife advocates, contributing both to legal compliance and environmental protection.

“There are a number of common misconceptions regarding the legality of pet turtles in British Columbia, especially concerning Red-eared Slider Turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans). While some turtle species are indeed illegal to keep as pets in the province, others—including Red-eared Sliders—are permitted under specific regulations. Misunderstandings of the law surrounding pet turtles can lead to unnecessary fear, pet abandonment and unintentional legal violations.”

To read the full article, click the link below:
https://www.okanaganturtleadoptions.org/blog/the-legality-of-pet-turtles-in-british-columbia/

Justin DeMerchant
Executive Director, Okanagan Turtle Adoption Program
Bachelor of Arts, University of British Columbia Okanagan
Major: Anthropology | Minor: Earth and Environmental Sciences
www.okanaganturtleadoptions.org

Luana Arakaki
Attorney at Law, Arakaki & Gargamala Associate Lawyers
Bachelor of Law | Licentiate in Philosophy, Mackenzie Presbyterian University
Major: International Contracts and Negotiation | Minor: Real Estate Law
https://aegadvogados.com