Bozeman, MT Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Section 8.02.010 defines an exotic animal as any wild or other animal that is not tame by nature. The printed list includes raccoon, fox, skunk, beaver, otter, wolf, wolf hybrid, bear, raptor, alligator, crocodile, poisonous snake, monkey, swine, any member of the feline species other than the domestic cat, any member of the canine species other than the domestic dog, and any other animal that would require a standard of care and control greater than that required for customary household pets sold by pet shops or domestic farm animals. Farm animals, rodents, domesticated ferrets, captive-bred species of fish and common cage birds are excluded.

Under section 8.02.060(A) the City Commission itself decides. The applicant must show to the commission's satisfaction that the animal will not constitute a threat to public health or safety. Subsection B sends the application through the special license procedure in section 8.02.050 and requires notice of intent to all neighbors, including specific information about the nature of the animal.

Subsection C has the commission impose enclosure requirements. The enclosure must be built to applicable zoning codes with the proper permits, and the animal control officer and the health board must inspect it periodically. It must provide an adequate exercise area and sleeping quarters with proper temperature control and ventilation for the species, be kept locked, prevent anyone entering or placing appendages inside, prevent escape and injury, have a secured water container, be disinfected daily and use impervious surfaces.

Subsection D exempts accredited zoological gardens, appropriately licensed theatrical exhibits or circuses, federally licensed research institutions, government agency education or propagation programs, and holders of a valid state rehabilitation permit, the last only for animals scheduled for release to the wild. The section does not allow any wild animal expressly prohibited by state statute. Under subsection E the permit fee is set by resolution, permits are due on the first business day of January and expire December 31, and a $50.00 late registration fee applies if the fee is unpaid by February 15. A renewal application after February 15 is treated as a new application.