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Sedgwick County, KS Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Prohibited
Inherently dangerous animals, unincorporated
Big cats
Non-domestic felines over 15 lbs
Also covers
Wolves, wolf-hybrids, bears, reptiles
Exemptions
Zoos, AZA facilities, licensed holders
License
Annual, insurance required

Summary

It is unlawful to own, harbor or permit at large any "inherently dangerous animal" in unincorporated Sedgwick County. This covers big cats, bears, wolves/wolf-hybrids and inherently dangerous reptiles. Limited exceptions (zoos, AZA-accredited facilities, vet clinics, licensed holders at an approved location) apply.

City-specific rules exist: Wichita has its own exotic pets rules that differ from Sedgwick County's county-level regulations. If you live in Wichita, check the city-specific page instead.

It shall be unlawful for any person to own, harbor or permit at large any inherently dangerous animal in the unincorporated area of the county.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 22 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

Sec. 5-226 makes it unlawful for any person to own, harbor or permit at large any inherently dangerous animal in the unincorporated area. Sec. 5-1 defines inherently dangerous mammals as members of the Canidae (non-domesticated dogs, wolves and wolf hybrids), Felidae (cats over 15 pounds that are not domestic), and Ursidae (bears) families, plus inherently dangerous reptiles. Sec. 5-227 exempts the Sedgwick County Zoo, Tanganyika Wildlife Park, AZA-accredited facilities, licensed medical and educational institutions, veterinary clinics, and license holders keeping such animals at an approved location. Holders at an approved location must obtain an annual inherently-dangerous-animal license and carry required insurance (sec. 5-228).

Violations & Fines

Keeping a prohibited inherently dangerous animal is a chapter 5 violation subject to enforcement and impoundment under sec. 5-229, with fines up to $500 per offense and each day a separate offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a big cat or wolf hybrid?
No. Owning or harboring inherently dangerous animals, including non-domestic cats over 15 pounds, wolves and wolf hybrids, and bears, is unlawful in unincorporated Sedgwick County unless you qualify for a listed exception.
Are there any legal exceptions?
Yes. Sec. 5-227 exempts the county zoo, Tanganyika Wildlife Park, AZA-accredited facilities, medical and educational institutions, veterinary clinics, and licensed holders keeping the animal at an approved location.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Sedgwick County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsDog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsMicrochippingSignificant RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSome Restrictions

All Sedgwick County rules

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Exotic Pets in Cities Across Sedgwick County

Wichita, KS