Edison, NJ Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Exotic pet keeping in New Jersey is one of the strictest regulatory regimes in the country. Under N.J.A.C. 7:25-4 (Potentially Dangerous Species), administered by the NJDEP Division of Fish & Wildlife, possession of primates, large cats (lions, tigers, leopards), bears, alligators and crocodilians, venomous reptiles, and most non-domestic species requires a state-issued Potentially Dangerous Species permit, which is generally restricted to accredited zoos, research facilities, and licensed exhibitors. Common pet-trade species explicitly allowed without permit include ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and most parrots; chinchillas and rabbits are also allowed. Reptiles native to New Jersey may not be kept under N.J.A.C. 7:25-4.13. Edison Township Code Chapter 9 (Animals) adds local rules: any structure used to house hoofed animals must be at least 75 feet from any property line, and the keeping requires Township Zoning Officer plus Health Officer approval and a Division of Licenses permit. Edison Animal Control investigates reports of unauthorized exotic species and coordinates seizure with NJDEP Conservation Police. The federal Lacey Act and the federal Big Cat Public Safety Act of 2022 also apply to interstate exotic transport.