Louisville, KY Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

The keeping or holding of wild animals that are inherently dangerous wildlife, exotic wildlife, endangered species, or wildlife whose importation or possession is prohibited by any federal or state law or regulation is prohibited, and declared to be unlawful. This section shall not apply to the following:

(1)   Any zoological garden accredited by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums;

(2)   Licensed circuses and theatrical exhibits;

(3)   Authorized wildlife rehabilitators with any required state-issued permit;

(4)   Licensed veterinary hospitals for the purpose of treating injured animals;

(5)   Federally-licensed research institutions.

(B)   (1)   Those parties legally possessing wild animals under a state- issued permit, which would have been legal before the effective date of this chapter may continue to possess such animals until the expiration date of the original permit. Such permits may not be renewed or transferred to any other individual or entity, and will subject the new owner to the prohibitions set forth herein.

(2)   Any party legally owning an animal under this section shall register such animal with MAS within 30 days of the effective date of this chapter.

(C)   Keeping of wild animals not prohibited by this chapter shall be in accordance with standards set forth in the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. Additionally, the owners/keepers of such wild animals