Exotic Pet Laws

Exotic Pet Laws. The issue of wild animal possession is for the most part governed by state law. While some basic laws are in place regarding the trading and importation of wild animals, the states have the most to say about what you consider as a pet. Before you move across state lines, make sure your exotic pet is permitted in the state you're relocating to---as each state has its own laws regarding exotic pets. Your new neighbors will appreciate knowing that your pet cheetah has had all her shots.

Florida Laws

You cannot own a chimpanzee in Florida unless you owned it before August 1, 1980. After that, they are found on the list of Class I animals not permitted for private ownership. Other animals on the same list are baboons, leopards, jaguars, tigers, lions, bears, elephants and crocodiles. If you want to own a coyote in Florida, you can with a special permit. An alligator also is on the Class II list of exotic pets allowed by special permit from the Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. Many other wild animals not found on list one and two can be held as pets with a free owner's permit.

Texas Laws

In Texas, the laws are more liberal for exotic pet owners. The Texas law states, "No person may possess a dangerous wild animal without first obtaining a license (certificate of registration)." Some of the dangerous wild animals on the list are lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, bobcats, hyenas, bears, coyotes, jackals, baboons, chimpanzees, orangutans and gorillas. There is no requirement to possess a monkey or another animal not named on the list.

California Laws

In California, due to the density of the population, the laws are strict on the ownership of wild animals. The laws regarding possession went into effect in January 1992. Here are some of the animals listed as being prohibited: primates including monkeys, chimpanzees and gorillas; marsupials such as raccoons; shrews; bats; non-domestic dog and cats; elephants; zebras, wild horses, rhinos; reptiles such as crocodiles, cobras, coral snakes, pit vipers, snapping turtles and alligators. These animals are listed as prohibited from private ownership in the state of California.

Alaska

The laws are more relaxed for exotic pet owners in Alaska. Here are some of the animals that you can privately own in Alaska if you promise to keep them from roaming wild: reindeer, sheep, goats, mules, llama and chimpanzees are permitted for private ownership without a permit. The list is long and you would be surprised at what you can own in Alaska. If you see an elk walking down the road, check out its ears for any markings or tags. The owner may be in hot pursuit of his lost pet. He has 48 hours to reclaim it.

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