Lee County, NC Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

County Code Sec. 4-42 defines an inherently dangerous exotic animal as any member of the canidae, felidae or ursidae families (including hybrids), any venomous reptile, and any member of the order Crocodilia; the felidae category kicks in once a cat exceeds 15 pounds, sweeping in lions, tigers, cougars and similar hybrids while exempting ordinary domestic cats and dogs. A harborer is anyone, regardless of ownership, who allows such an animal to remain, lodge, be fed, or be given shelter on property they control, so a landlord or caretaker can be liable alongside an owner.

Four exceptions apply: licensed veterinary clinics treating or rehabilitating the animal; nonprofit science or nature education institutions that receive government funding, have a public membership and hold 501(c)(3) status; non-resident circuses or carnivals permitted to operate in the county; and anyone transporting the animal through the county for no more than 24 hours. When Animal Services finds a violation, it issues a notice and impounds the animal, posting the notice on-site if the harborer is absent. The harborer has three business days to reclaim the animal under conditions the animal services supervisor sets and the health director approves, typically requiring the animal be transferred safely outside the county.

If the animal cannot be safely impounded or housed, Animal Services must euthanize it immediately; if no one claims it within three business days, the health director may sell, transfer or euthanize it. All impoundment and care costs are charged to the harborer even if the animal is reclaimed, and unpaid costs become a county debt collectible through civil action.