Bethlehem, PA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

02(A) of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Bethlehem, Article 1160 Wild and Exotic Animals, prohibits keeping a wild or exotic animal anywhere except a zoological park, veterinary hospital or clinic, humane society, or a circus, sideshow, amusement show or educational or scientific facility with cages, fences, and other protective devices adequate to prevent escape, injury to the public, or a fecal-matter health hazard. 01(4) defines wild or exotic animal to include any species prohibited under Title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations or controlled by Pennsylvania, plus a lengthy named list: non-domestic cat family members such as lions, tigers and ocelots; the dog family other than domesticated dogs, including wolves, foxes, and coyotes; bears; crocodilians; venomous or constricting reptiles; venomous invertebrates; primates; raccoons; porcupines and skunks; and weasel-family animals from ferrets to wolverines.

02(B) separately bans selling, trading, or giving away any wild or exotic animal, with a residency condition on transfers made under the pre-existing-ownership exception. 00 fee per animal paid to the City Treasurer, a copy filed with the Police Department, and a rule that the animal cannot be replaced once it dies, is sold, or is otherwise disposed of.