Chelsea, MA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

9.01: Exemption List Pursuant to the authority granted in M.G.L. c. 131, § 23, herewith is established a list of species which are exempt from the licensing provisions of M.G.L. c. 131, § 23. This list includes wild (i.e., non-domesticated) vertebrate animals which may be imported, sold or possessed without a permit. Note, however, that listing below does not affect other licensing requirements which may be applicable under Federal, State or local laws, including special endangered species and export restrictions of other states.

(1) Purpose. The purpose of 321 CMR 9.01 is to list those species which are exempt from the licensing provisions of M.G.L. c. 131, § 23, and which may be imported, possessed, maintained, propagated, bought, sold, exchanged or offered for sale without a license or permit from the Division. Species not listed, or which are expressly listed as "require(s) a permit", are not exempt from the provisions of M.G.L. c. 131, § 23. Notwithstanding a species being exempt from these licensing provisions, such species shall be kept in a manner appropriate for their health and safety, including being secured from escape.

(3) Categorical Non-exemptions: No species in any of the following categories may be exempted:

(a) Threatened or endangered species listed pursuant to the U.S. Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended;

(b) Species listed in the Red Book(-s) of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature;

(c) Species appearing on the Massachusetts list of endangered, threatened, and special concern species at 321 CMR 10.90.