Ohio's Dangerous Wild Animal Act (ORC 935) prohibits private ownership of big cats, bears, non-human primates, large constrictor snakes, crocodilians, and similar species throughout Franklin County. The 2012 law followed the Zanesville incident and is enforced by ODA.
ORC 935.02 lists restricted dangerous wild animals. Ownership acquired after September 2012 is banned. Existing owners had to register, microchip, obtain permits with insurance, and meet caging standards; no new permits are issued. Venomous snakes over certain lengths also require restricted-snake permits. ODA and Franklin County Sheriff coordinate seizures. Native wildlife rehabilitation requires ODNR Division of Wildlife permits.
Unlawful possession: fifth-degree felony under ORC 935.99, up to 12 months prison and 2,500 dollars fine, plus seizure and placement at an accredited sanctuary (owner pays costs).
Columbus, OH
Columbus Fire Code Title 25 incorporates the International Fire Code Chapter 61 governing propane and LP-gas storage. Residential cylinders are limited in si...
Columbus, OH
Columbus has no city ordinance regulating year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays at single-family properties. The Title 33 Graphics Code ...
Columbus, OH
Columbus has no zoning, building, or graphics-code provision specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. The Title 33 Graphics Code exem...
Columbus, OH
Columbus has no city ordinance restricting when residents may install or must remove holiday lights at single-family homes. The Columbus Graphics Code (Title...
Columbus, OH
Built-in outdoor kitchens in Columbus require permits from the Department of Building and Zoning Services when they involve gas-line extensions, electrical w...
Columbus, OH
Columbus has no ordinance specifically targeting backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens at single- or two-family homes. General nuisance provis...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Franklin County.
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