Yakima County, WA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Banned
- Big cats, bears, primates
- State Law
- RCW 16.30
- Acquisitions
- None allowed
- Grandfather Clause
- Pre-July 2007 only
- Exempt
- Zoos, sanctuaries, research
Summary
Washington bans keeping most dangerous wild animals, so no Yakima County resident may acquire big cats, bears, primates, or venomous reptiles. RCW 16.30 prohibits possessing or breeding a potentially dangerous wild animal, with a grandfather clause for animals held before July 22, 2007.
A person shall not own, possess, keep, harbor, bring into the state, or have custody or control of a potentially dangerous wild animal.... A person shall not breed a potentially dangerous wild animal.
Full Breakdown
Exotic dangerous animals are controlled by the state, not by Yakima County. Under RCW 16.30, a person may not own, possess, keep, or breed a potentially dangerous wild animal, a category that includes large cats, bears, wolves, primates, and venomous or large constrictor snakes. Anyone lawfully holding such an animal before July 22, 2007 could keep it for its lifetime with documentation, but no new acquisitions are allowed. Accredited zoos, sanctuaries, research institutions, and veterinary care are exempt. This binds every Yakima County resident equally; violations are enforced by animal control and law enforcement, who can confiscate the animal.
Violations & Fines
Possessing or breeding a potentially dangerous wild animal violates RCW 16.30 and carries civil penalties of $200 to $2,000 per animal for each day of violation, plus confiscation by animal control or law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an exotic animal like a big cat?
Who enforces the exotic-animal ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yakima County
Compare Yakima County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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