Jefferson County, CO Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Buffalo/ostrich/emu
- Agricultural zones only
- Residential zones
- Not permitted
- Ag lots (min size)
- No number limit
- Wildlife authority
- Colorado Parks & Wildlife
- County source
- Domestic Animals by Zoning chart
Summary
Jefferson County's zoning chart addresses large exotics like buffalo, ostriches, and emu, which are only allowed in agricultural zones. Truly wild/dangerous exotic species are further governed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife rules, which prohibit most private possession of native wildlife.
Buffalo, ostriches, emu — [permitted in] A-1, A-2, A-35 [Agricultural zones]: Properties meeting the minimum lot size: no limit. Properties not meeting the minimum lot size: same as [large-animal density rule].
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
The county's "Domestic Animals Permitted by Zoning" chart lists "Buffalo, ostriches, emu" as a category permitted only in Agricultural zones (A-1, A-2, A-35): properties meeting minimum lot size have no limit; smaller ag lots follow the large-animal density formula. These species are not listed as allowed in residential or mountain-residential zones. Beyond zoning, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) regulates possession of wildlife and "unregulated"/exotic species statewide; many native and dangerous exotics require a CPW license or are prohibited. Check both the county zone district and CPW rules before acquiring an exotic animal.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a large exotic outside an agricultural zone is a county zoning violation. Unlawful possession of regulated wildlife is separately enforced by Colorado Parks and Wildlife under Title 33.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an emu or ostrich on my Jeffco property?
Who regulates keeping native wildlife?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jefferson County
Compare Jefferson County to another location·View the Colorado animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.