Forsyth County, NC Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Code section
- Sec. 6-54 (dangerous exotic/wild)
- Prohibited
- Dangerous exotic mammals/reptiles, wild animals
- Exemptions
- Zoos, circuses, pet shops, vets, rehabbers
- Penalty
- Class 3 misdemeanor, up to $500
- State overlay
- NC Wildlife Resources Commission
Summary
Forsyth County Sec. 6-54 makes it unlawful for any person or business to possess, harbor, or have an inherently dangerous exotic mammal, an inherently dangerous reptile, or a wild animal. Only carnivals, circuses, pet shops, zoos, veterinarians, and permitted wildlife rehabilitators are exempt.
It is unlawful for any person or business to possess, harbor, or have an inherently dangerous exotic mammal, an inherently dangerous reptile, or a wild animal. Exemptions include lawfully operated carnivals and circuses, lawfully operated pet shops, zoos, veterinarians, and wildlife rehabilitators with proper permits.
Full Breakdown
Sec. 6-54 (Possession of Inherently Dangerous Exotic Animals and Wild Animals Prohibited) bars keeping venomous and dangerous exotic species in the county. Exemptions apply only to lawfully operated carnivals and circuses, lawfully operated pet shops, zoos, veterinarians, and wildlife rehabilitators with proper permits. This is one of the most serious offenses in the animal code. North Carolina also regulates possession of native wildlife through the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, and separate rabies and cruelty rules apply. Ordinary domestic pets are not affected, but dangerous or wild species cannot be kept as pets within the county.
Violations & Fines
A violation is a Class 3 misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500 (Sec. 6-55(a)), plus the civil citation schedule ($50 first offense up to $500 and seizure for the fifth and successive).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic or wild animal in Forsyth County?
Who is exempt from the exotic-animal ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Forsyth County
Compare Forsyth County to another location·View the North Carolina animal ordinances overview
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