Michigan law bans keeping large carnivores (big cats, bears) and wolf-dog hybrids as pets, with narrow grandfathered exceptions. Kent County adds no separate exotic-pet ordinance, so the statewide bans control.
Kent County does not maintain its own exotic-pet ordinance; Michigan statutes govern. The Large Carnivore Act (MCL 287.1101 et seq.) prohibits acquiring or possessing lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, panthers, cheetahs, bears, and their hybrids, except animals lawfully grandfathered and permitted when the act took effect in 2000. The Wolf-Dog Cross Act (MCL 287.1001 et seq.) bans wolf-dog hybrids acquired after June 29, 2000. Grandfathered animals require strict enclosures, liability insurance, and permits that cannot be transferred. Other exotic species may be restricted by your city or township, so check local zoning for reptiles, primates, or other unusual pets.
Violations of the Large Carnivore or Wolf-Dog Cross Acts are misdemeanors with fines up to $2,000 per animal and possible forfeiture of the animal.
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See how Kent County's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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