Columbus, OH Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Venomous reptiles/arthropods
- Banned citywide, zoo exemption only
- Constrictor snake limit
- Over 12 feet prohibited
- First violation penalty
- Misdemeanor of the third degree
- Repeat or declared-dangerous
- Misdemeanor of the first degree
- Liability standard
- Strict liability, no intent required
Summary
Columbus prohibits keeping any venomous reptile or arthropod, and any constrictor snake over twelve feet long, as pets: the only exemptions are public zoos and research institutions.
(C)No person shall keep or harbor any venomous reptile or arthropod, except public zoos and research institutions.(D)No person shall keep or harbor any or constrictor type snake larger than twelve (12) feet long, except in a public zoo or research institution.(E)Whoever violates this section is guilty of keeping a dangerous animal, a misdemeanor of the third degree. If the animal previously has been declared a dangerous or vicious animal then whoever violates this section is guilty of keeping a declared dangerous or vicious animal, a misdemeanor of the first degree.(F)Strict liability is intended to be imposed for a violation of this section. (Ord. 2535-94.)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Form Based Code: ?).
Full Breakdown
Columbus City Code § 2327.09 bars anyone from keeping or harboring a venomous reptile or arthropod, or a constrictor-type snake longer than twelve feet, anywhere in the city. Only public zoos and research institutions are exempt. The city's health commissioner and city veterinarian administer this animal chapter; a first violation is a misdemeanor of the third degree, rising to a misdemeanor of the first degree if the animal has previously been declared dangerous or vicious. The ordinance imposes strict liability, so lack of intent is not a defense.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a venomous reptile, arthropod, or an oversized constrictor snake is a misdemeanor of the third degree; a violation involving an animal already declared dangerous or vicious escalates to a misdemeanor of the first degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet snake in Columbus?
Are venomous reptiles legal to own in Columbus?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbus
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Franklin County handle exotic pets.