Tennessee regulates exotic animal ownership through the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Many species require permits, and certain dangerous animals are prohibited as pets.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) regulates exotic animal possession. Class I animals (large cats, bears, great apes) are prohibited without a special permit. Class II animals (wolves, coyotes, certain primates) require a permit. Class III animals (smaller reptiles, birds, some mammals) may be kept without a permit. Chattanooga follows state regulations. Tennessee law also prohibits keeping skunks and raccoons as pets. Venomous reptiles require a permit.
Keeping prohibited animals without permits is a Class A misdemeanor. Animals may be confiscated.
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See how Chattanooga's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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