How do I get a permit to keep Lasius niger in United States?

1. Determine the destination state's specific requirements (some states have additional restrictions). 2. Complete USDA APHIS PPQ Form 526 online at https://efile.aphis.usda.gov/s/ 3. Provide species identification, source location, intended use, and containment plan. 4. Submit at least 280 days (40 weeks) before intended movement — APHIS recommends this lead time. 5. Average processing time is 127 days. 6. Permit is species- and state-specific; a separate permit is required for each destination state. Average processing time: 127 days.

Lasius niger in United States

Q: Is Lasius niger legal in United States?

Lasius niger is permit required in United States. The governing law is USDA APHIS PPQ 526 — Permit for Movement of Regulated Articles. The relevant authority is USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). APHIS states: "If you are moving ants between States, importing them, or selling them interstate, you must have a valid PPQ 526 permit for the specific ant species and the State you are moving them to." Lasius niger is non-native to North America; native Lasius species may have different requirements.

Permit Required

Governing Law

USDA APHIS PPQ 526 — Permit for Movement of Regulated Articles

View official text ↗

Regulatory Authority

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

How to Get a Permit in United States

Determine the destination state's specific requirements (some states have additional restrictions).
Complete USDA APHIS PPQ Form 526 online at https://efile.aphis.usda.gov/s/
Provide species identification, source location, intended use, and containment plan.
Submit at least 280 days (40 weeks) before intended movement — APHIS recommends this lead time.
Average processing time is 127 days.
Permit is species- and state-specific; a separate permit is required for each destination state.

⏱ Average processing time: ~127 days

USDA APHIS recommends submitting at least 280 days (40 weeks) in advance.

Additional Notes

APHIS states: "If you are moving ants between States, importing them, or selling them interstate, you must have a valid PPQ 526 permit for the specific ant species and the State you are moving them to." Lasius niger is non-native to North America; native Lasius species may have different requirements.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always verify with USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) before purchasing, shipping, or keeping live ants. Never release ants into the environment — euthanise by placing in a freezer for 24+ hours.

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