Well, one would assume that if you can't find any info on permits but you CAN find info on them being illegal to keep, i think it would follow that they're probably illegal to keep. Also why are you looking for info on permits if you don't plan to keep them?

From what i understand about hot keeping anyway, you really really shouldn't just go out and buy a hot if it's available and if you have a permit. I think apprenticing is either required or recommended, and your mentor will probably be able to fill you in with all the pertinent information you need once youre ready for your own snake anyway...