Massachusetts prohibits most wild and exotic animals as pets under 321 CMR 9.01. MassWildlife does not issue pet permits. Only species on the exemption list may be kept without a license.
Under 321 CMR 9.01, Massachusetts maintains a strict exemption list system for exotic pet ownership. Most wild animals are prohibited as personal pets, and MassWildlife does not issue permits for pet ownership. Exempt species that may be kept without a license include African pygmy hedgehogs, chinchillas, sugar gliders, degus, and certain reptiles and amphibians. All venomous snakes require permits. Animals listed on the IUCN Red List, federal endangered species list, or MA state list cannot be possessed. Unlawfully possessed animals may be seized by law enforcement.
Unlawfully possessed animals subject to seizure and disposal by the Director of Law Enforcement. Criminal penalties may apply under MGL c. 131 Section 23.
Boston, MA
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Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Suffolk County.
See how other cities in Suffolk County handle exotic pets.
See how Boston's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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