Bethlehem, PA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Bethlehem's local enforcement runs through Article 1160 (Wild and Exotic Animals) of the Codified Ordinances at https://www.bethlehem-pa.gov/ordinances, which provides a dedicated local ban-and-permit chapter beyond the general Article 1159 nuisance framework. Pennsylvania state law layers a separate and significant requirement on top. The Game and Wildlife Code at 34 Pa.C.S. Section 2961 et seq., implemented through 58 Pa. Code Chapter 147 (https://www.pacodeandbulletin.gov/Display/pacode?file=/secure/pacode/data/058/chapter147/chap147toc.html&d=reduce), classifies certain species as 'exotic wildlife' — including lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, mountain lions, cougars, bears, wolves, hyenas, and venomous reptiles native to non-PA jurisdictions — and requires an Exotic Wildlife Possession Permit from the Pennsylvania Game Commission. The permit includes caging standards, prior-experience requirements, and a minimum two-year apprenticeship for large carnivores. Common household pets such as ferrets, parrots, non-venomous reptiles, rabbits, and most small mammals are not exotic under the state framework and do not need a Game Commission permit, though they may still draw review under Article 1159 (Animals) or Article 1160 if Bethlehem treats them as non-customary household animals. Anyone considering an unusual pet should call the City of Bethlehem Health Bureau and the Pennsylvania Game Commission Northeast Region Office in Dallas, PA before purchase.