Pierce County, WA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Pierce County Code Chapter 6.16 (Potentially Dangerous Wild Animals) controls exotic animals in the unincorporated county. PCC 6.16.010 defines 'animal' broadly to include 'all reptiles, birds, invertebrates, mammals, amphibians, and fishes.' PCC 6.16.020 provides that residents 'may keep potentially dangerous wild animals other than those defined in and prohibited by RCW [16.30.010] if they obtain a permit' from the Auditor or the Auditor's designated agent. A permit is granted only on a showing that adequate safeguards control the animal's dangerous propensities, eliminate danger to people and property, and pose no nuisance to surrounding occupants. Washington's RCW 16.30 already bans private possession of many dangerous wild animals (large cats, bears, wolves, primates, venomous reptiles) statewide, so those cannot be permitted locally.