Waikiki Aquarium Launches Amnesty for Illegal Pets
The program encourages Hawaii residents to turn in prohibited aquatic animals without facing legal penalties.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Aquariums
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The Waikiki Aquarium has launched a second Don't Let It Loose campaign to help protect Hawaii marine ecosystems. Residents may now surrender illegal aquatic pets at the aquarium or other designated statewide locations without penalty.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to prevent the release of non-native species into local waters, which can cause significant ecological harm. By providing an amnesty window, officials hope to remove prohibited fish and invasive soft coral from home aquariums before they enter the environment.
The program marks the second iteration of this statewide effort, which allows residents to drop off prohibited fish and invasive soft coral species. Hawaii law strictly prohibits the possession of specific coral species in home aquariums.
The players
Waikiki Aquarium
Located on Kalakaua Avenue, this institution serves as a primary site for the collection of surrendered illegal aquatic pets.
Hawaii Department of Agriculture
This state agency oversees the regulation of non-native species and partners with the aquarium to prevent the release of invasive animals.
Department of Natural Resources
This department works alongside agricultural officials to mitigate the spread of invasive species like those found in Pearl Harbor.
The details
The program is a partnership between the Waikiki Aquarium, the Hawaii Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Natural Resources. Residents can visit the aquarium on Kalakaua Avenue, across from Kapiolani Park, to participate, provided they surrender the animals before an investigation begins.
Timeline
The Don't Let It Loose campaign officially launched on October 29, 2026.
Culture Shift
This program aligns with Hawaii state laws banning coral possession to curb the spread of invasive species. It marks a departure from punitive measures by prioritizing ecological protection through public amnesty.
Residents currently housing prohibited aquatic life can now dispose of these animals safely without the fear of legal repercussions. Owners should ensure they surrender items before any formal investigation into their specific possession begins.
The takeaway
Responsible pet ownership is critical to protecting Hawaii’s fragile marine ecosystems from invasive species. Residents should verify the legal status of any aquatic life before acquisition to avoid future compliance issues.
Further reading
Learn more about the local marine life and conservation efforts at the Aquariums section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Hawaiinewsnow.
Live Poll
Would you use an amnesty program to surrender illegal or unwanted aquatic pets in your community?
