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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-four-inch-turtle-rule

Since 1975, US law bans selling pet turtles with shells shorter than what?

4 inches.

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  1. 4 inches ✔
  2. 1 inch
  3. 12 inches

Why: Since 1975 the FDA has banned selling turtles with shells under 4 inches as pets. The CDC says small turtles pose a higher risk of spreading disease, especially to children.

Huh, didn't know that: The CDC estimates the ban prevents about 100,000 Salmonella infections in children each year.

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Why did the turtle bring a ruler? To make sure it measured up.
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References

Answer: 4 inches. Since 1975 the FDA has banned selling turtles with shells under 4 inches as pets. The CDC says small turtles pose a higher risk of spreading disease, especially to children.

  1. Reptiles and Amphibians (CDC Healthy Pets) www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/reptiles-and-amphibians.html
    The sale of turtles less than 4 inches has been banned in the United States since 1975.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Reptiles and Amphibians (CDC Healthy Pets) www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/reptiles-and-amphibians.html
    Each year, the ban prevents an estimated 100,000 cases of Salmonella infection among children.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. 21 CFR 1240.62 Turtles intrastate and interstate requirements (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/21/1240.62
    viable turtle eggs and live turtles with a carapace length of less than 4 inches shall not be sold
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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