Ohio bans private possession of dangerous wild animals such as big cats, bears, large primates, and many venomous snakes. The ban applies statewide, including all of Lorain County. Existing owners had to register and meet strict caging standards.
After the 2011 Zanesville incident, Ohio enacted the Dangerous Wild Animals Act (ORC Chapter 935). ORC 935.02 prohibits possessing a dangerous wild animal on or after January 1, 2014, unless the owner held the animal before that date and obtained a state permit under strict insurance, caging, and microchip requirements. Restricted species include lions, tigers, bears, large primates, alligators, and certain venomous snakes. The ban is enforced by the Ohio Department of Agriculture and applies everywhere in Lorain County. Common exotic pets like most reptiles, birds, and small mammals are not covered, but your city or township may add its own restrictions.
Illegal possession of a dangerous wild animal is a criminal offense with seizure of the animal and escalating misdemeanor-to-felony penalties under ORC 935.99.
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See how Lorain County's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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