Bellevue, WA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

LUC 20.20.130 specifically prohibits keeping mink, foxes, or hogs within Bellevue city limits. State law RCW 16.30 (Dangerous Wild Animals Act) provides a broader framework banning possession of dangerous wild animals including large cats (lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, cheetahs), bears (except black bears under specific conditions), wolves and wolf hybrids, nonhuman primates, venomous reptiles and Gila monsters, crocodilians, and any hybrid of these species. Existing owners before July 2007 could register and keep their animals but cannot acquire new ones. Violations carry civil penalties of not less than $200 and not more than $2,000 per animal per day. Additionally, WDFW (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife) regulates native wildlife possession under WAC 220-450, banning ownership of native species without permits. USDA regulates certain exotic imports. Many common reptiles (non-venomous snakes, geckos), ferrets (legal in WA unlike some states), sugar gliders, and hedgehogs are legal. Always verify species legality before acquisition.