However, different provinces (Canada) and states (United States) may require a permit for wildlife to be kept in a private residence. Examples of various legislation that may apply include the Fish and Wildlife Act, and the Wildlife Act. Permits required may include a wildlife rehabilitation permit or a captive wildlife permit. It is usual for governments and other wildlife organizations to discourage people from removing wildlife from its natural environment unless its survival is threatened.

The fur of the American Marten is shiny and luxuriant, resembling that of the closely related sable. At the turn of the twentieth century, the American Marten population was depleted due to the fur trade. The Hudson's Bay Company traded in pelts from this species among others. Numerous protection measures and reintroduction efforts have allowed the population to increase, but deforestation is still a problem for the marten in much of its habitat. Hunting of the American Marten is currently legal in certain areas during a short hunting season.