Yes, You Can Own a Deer in Wisconsin – But There’s a Catch!

Growing up, many people had cats or dogs or even fish as pets. In the Midwest, it's not uncommon for people to own farm animals like cattle, pigs, or chickens.

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However, there are some animals that would definitely turn some heads if we saw them at the pet store.

Did you know that there are some people who actually have pet deer?

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While it might seem fun and wholesome to bring home one of these adorable animals, they are wild animals.

If you get too close to them they could attack you, just like any other wild creature.

However, there are five states in the United States that allow residents to own a deer as a pet.

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So, Can I Keep A Deer As A Pet in Wisconsin?

You can legally have a deer as a pet in Rhode Island, Arkansas, South Dakota, Colorado, and Oklahoma, according to World Population Review.

In some states you can take home a deer as long as you have a permit. These places include Vermont, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, Wisconsin, North Dakota, New Mexico, and Idaho.

What Are the Permit Prerequisites For Owning A Deer In Wisconsin?

If you want to own a deer in the Badger State, you'll have to adhere to a few regulations.

Wisconsin residents can keep "farm-raised white-tailed deer" as long as the animals are contained in a fenced area, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

In addition, these deer owners are required to have a valid Deer Farm Fence Inspection Certificate that is issued by the Wisconsin DNR.

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Home Built For An Impeached Mayor In Wisconsin Is Now For Sale

A property has hit the market in Superior, Wisconsin and it's rich with colorful history!

The home, located at 1202 E. 4th Street near Gouge Park, was built in 1890 for a man who the Douglas County Historical Society says was the City of Superior's 6th mayor, and it's quite a story!

The Douglas County Historical Society has said that Charles Starkweather moved to Superior from Vermont in 1889. After first being elected to the common council in 1893, he became the city’s mayor in 1895.

It sounds like he was somewhat of a rebel as Starkweather was controversially impeached after allowing saloons to have unlicensed gambling and because he allowed liquor sales on Sundays. In protest, he then swiftly put a padlock on the door to the mayor’s office to keep everyone out.

Eventually, Starkweather did leave and Martin Pattison became Superior's new mayor, but two years later Starkweather ran for mayor again and got the job.

Charles Starkweather passed away in 1918, but his legacy lives on, as does the home built for him. Now, you could own that piece of history.

The 4,128 square-foot home has 5 bedrooms and two baths and from the wrap-around covered porch to the carved wood inside, it's filled with historic charm.

Once you open the double front doors you'll instantly notice the workmanship of days gone by with hardwood floors, carved wood and coffered ceilings, and ornate touches everywhere you look.

Of course, there are also modern updates including Anderson windows, a tiled fireplace, a custom eat-in kitchen, a custom coffee bar/server, an updated bathroom with a main floor walk-in shower, and a lot more.

Take a look at this historic, turn-key property. It hit the market in September 2024 and is currently listed for $515,000.

The home was recently used as a short-term rental under a Tourist Rooming House license so while it would make a great primary residence, it could also be used as an investment property.

Gallery Credit: David Drew