Clark County, NV Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Clark County Title 10 Section 10.36 prohibits the keeping of wild, exotic, and dangerous animals within unincorporated Clark County. The prohibited list covers big cats (lions, tigers, leopards, cougars except permitted sanctuaries), bears, non-human primates (monkeys, apes), wolves and wolf-dog hybrids of first generation, crocodilians (alligators, crocodiles, caimans), venomous reptiles (cobras, rattlesnakes kept as pets, Gila monsters), and large constrictors beyond a listed length. Non-venomous snakes, most geckos and lizards, tortoises, ferrets (with state limits), rabbits, guinea pigs, and common pet birds are allowed. Nevada state law under NRS 503 and NAC 503 also prohibits keeping certain wildlife species without Nevada Department of Wildlife permits, and federal laws like the Endangered Species Act and the Lacey Act add further restrictions. Exhibitors and educational facilities with USDA Class C licenses may be permitted by conditional use permit. Master-planned HOAs add further private restrictions. Violations can result in confiscation, fines, and mandatory relocation of the animal to a licensed sanctuary.