Beaverton, OR Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Beaverton Code Chapter 5 (Animals) categorically prohibits keeping wild, exotic, or dangerous animals inside the city limits except as specifically authorized. The Oregon state framework in ORS 609.305 to 609.355 (Oregon Exotic Animal Act) defines an 'exotic animal' to include any non-human primate; any non-wolf member of the canine family; any bear other than the black bear; any non-domesticated feline (with exceptions for the domestic cat); and any crocodilian. Oregon stopped issuing new exotic-animal permits in 2010, so only owners who held a permit before that date may continue to possess such animals (grandfathered, non-transferable). The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife also restricts captive wildlife through OAR 635-044 (holding wildlife in captivity). At the city level, Beaverton Code Chapter 5 also limits livestock and poultry inside the city, with case-by-case exceptions for permitted urban chickens (typically up to a small number of hens on residential lots, no roosters). Exotic reptiles, ferrets, and common pet birds are generally not regulated by ORS 609.305 unless venomous or otherwise dangerous. Washington County Animal Services enforces animal complaints within Beaverton city limits.