Des Moines and Iowa law restrict ownership of dangerous wild animals. Iowa Code Chapter 717F prohibits keeping large cats, bears, wolves, primates, and other dangerous wild animals without a USDA license or specific exemption.
Iowa Code Chapter 717F (Dangerous Wild Animals Act) prohibits possessing dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, wolves, non-human primates, and certain large reptiles without proper federal licensing (USDA exhibitor license) or a specific exemption. Des Moines Municipal Code Chapter 18 further regulates exotic and wild animals within city limits. Common exotic pets like non-venomous snakes, ferrets, and certain birds may be permitted but owners should verify with Animal Control. Venomous reptiles and large constricting snakes may face additional restrictions. The city can seize illegally kept exotic animals. Iowa also regulates wildlife through the Iowa DNR for native species.
Possession of prohibited dangerous wild animal: serious misdemeanor under Iowa Code. City violations also apply. Animal may be confiscated.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires building permits for permanent outdoor kitchen installations with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under Chapt...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no smoker-specific ordinance. Open burning is regulated under Chapter 70 (Fire Prevention) and Iowa Code 100B with cooking-fire exemptions. Io...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Fire Code under Chapter 26, Article XII adopts the International Fire Code (IFC). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas tank...
See how Des Moines's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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