Broken Arrow, OK Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Ban
- Venomous reptiles, wild/exotic animals
- Exception
- City council permit required
- Insurance
- $50,000 minimum liability coverage
- Penalty
- Class A offense, per day
Summary
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma (Tulsa County) bans keeping venomous reptiles or any wild or exotic animal within city limits, with narrow exceptions for zoos, pet shops, and a discretionary permit issued by the city council.
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to keep, maintain, possess or have under their control within the city any venomous reptile or any other wild or exotic animal. A wild or exotic animal shall be defined as one which would ordinarily be confined to a zoo, or one which would ordinarily be found in the wilderness of this or any other country, or one which otherwise causes a reasonable person to be fearful of bodily harm or significant destruction of property.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 43).
Full Breakdown
The ordinance defines a wild or exotic animal as one ordinarily confined to a zoo, found in the wilderness, or that causes reasonable fear of bodily harm or property damage, not customary household or farm pets. To keep one, an owner needs a city council exotic animal permit backed by veterinarian certifications, a secure enclosure meeting Oklahoma Wildlife Commission and USDA standards, written notice to neighbors within 300 feet, and at least $50,000 in liability insurance. Even permitted animals cannot appear on public streets or sidewalks except in a fully enclosed cage; a leash alone never satisfies the restraint requirement.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a prohibited animal, or violating permit terms, is a class A offense, a separate offense each day, and can trigger permit revocation and removal of the animal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic pet in Broken Arrow?
Are household pets or farm animals affected?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Broken Arrow
Compare Broken Arrow to another location·View the Oklahoma animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle exotic pets.