Fargo, ND Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 12-0218
- Removal notice period
- 5 days
- Penalty class
- Infraction, per day
- Exempt species
- Ferrets, rabbits, lab rats
- Exempt operations
- Licensed zoos, circuses, vet clinics
Summary
Fargo prohibits keeping monkeys, wolves, big cats, poisonous snakes, and other wild or exotic animals as pets or for display anywhere in the city.
No person shall keep or permit to be kept any wild or exotic animal as a pet. ... "Wild" or "exotic animal" shall mean any live monkey (non-human primate), raccoon, skunk, wolf, squirrel, fox, leopard, panther, tiger, lion, lynx or any other warm-blooded animal, poisonous snake or tarantula which can normally be found in the wild state or any other member of crocodilian, including but not limited to alligators, crocodiles, caimans, and gavials.
Full Breakdown
Fargo Municipal Code § 12-0218 bars anyone from keeping or permitting a wild or exotic animal as a pet, or for display or exhibition, within city limits. The ban covers non-human primates, raccoons, skunks, wolves, foxes, leopards, panthers, tigers, lions, lynx, poisonous snakes, tarantulas, and crocodilians like alligators and caimans, plus any warm-blooded animal normally found in the wild or that cannot be effectively inoculated for rabies. Ferrets, non-poisonous snakes, rabbits, and captive-bred lab rats are excluded from the definition. Licensed zoos, circuses, performing-animal exhibitions, and veterinary clinics are exempt. Sellers must post a notice at the point of sale listing the prohibited species.
Violations & Fines
Each day of violation is a separate infraction; police investigate complaints, order removal within 5 days, and may seize, impound, or kill an animal that poses a serious risk or has already caused harm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet monkey or wolf hybrid in Fargo?
What happens if animal control finds a banned animal?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fargo
Compare Fargo to another location·View the North Dakota animal ordinances overview
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