Dearborn prohibits dangerous exotic animals including large cats, bears, venomous snakes, primates, and wolves. Small reptiles, ferrets, and common caged birds are allowed.
Dearborn prohibits the keeping of dangerous exotic animals within city limits, including lions, tigers, bears, wolves, wolf-dog hybrids, crocodilians, venomous snakes, and non-human primates. The prohibition follows Michigan MCL 287.1101 (the Large Carnivore Act) and local animal control ordinance. Small non-venomous reptiles like geckos, small constrictors under 6 feet, ferrets, hamsters, rabbits, and common caged birds are generally allowed without a permit. Boa constrictors and pythons approaching 8 feet may fall under state permitting. USDA-licensed educational exhibitors (such as the Dearborn Animal Shelter programs) have specific exemptions. Penalties for prohibited animals include immediate impoundment, fines from 500 dollars, and potential criminal charges.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Dearborn, MI
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