Utah County, UT Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Livestock
- Permitted in agricultural and rural zones; check Land Use Ordinance for subdivision zones
- Exotic animals
- May require Utah DWR permit under Utah Code Title 23A
- Judicially vicious animals
- Prohibited in Utah County. Chapter 5-2-19
- Chapter 5 livestock definition
- Cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses, mules, donkeys, poultry, and domestic fur bearers
Summary
Utah County Code Chapter 5 defines and regulates livestock in unincorporated areas. Livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses, and poultry, are permitted with no maximum restrictions in agricultural zones. Exotic animals may require state permits.
5-2-10. Wild animals. It is unlawful for any person to sell, offer for sale, barter, give away, keep, own, harbor, or purchase any wild animal. Except for government agencies or otherwise as provided for by state or federal regulations. "Wild animals" means any animals of a species that in their natural life are wild, including hybrids and animals which, as a result of their natural or wild condition, cannot be vaccinated effectively for rabies. These animals, however domesticated, shall be limited to: (1) Alligators and crocodiles; (2) Bears (Ursidae). All bears, including grizzly bears, brown bears, black bears, etc.; (3) Cat Family (Felidae). All except the commonly accepted domesticated cats, and including cheetah, cougar, leopard, lion, lynx, panther, mountain lion, tiger, wildcat, etc.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Utah County Code Chapter 5 defines livestock broadly to include cattle, sheep, goats, swine, horses, mules, donkeys, poultry, and other domestic animals raised for profit. Livestock keeping is central to unincorporated Utah County's rural character and is permitted in agricultural (A) and rural residential (RR) zones with minimal restrictions. Smaller residential subdivision zones within the county may restrict livestock. Exotic animals, including non-domestic species, primates, large cats, venomous reptiles, etc., may require permits from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) under Utah Code Title 23A. Judicially vicious animals from any jurisdiction are prohibited from being brought into Utah County.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic pet in Utah County?
What exotic animals are prohibited in Utah County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Utah County
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