Madison MGO 23.32 prohibits keeping wild, exotic, or dangerous animals as pets including big cats, wolves, venomous reptiles, nonhuman primates, and bears. State rules under WI Stat 169 also apply.
Madison General Ordinances 23.32 prohibits the keeping of wild and exotic animals within city limits. Prohibited animals include all nonhuman primates (monkeys, apes), big cats (lions, tigers, cougars, bobcats, servals), wolves and wolf hybrids, bears, venomous reptiles, large constricting snakes (anacondas, reticulated pythons), alligators and crocodiles, and other species considered dangerous. Wisconsin Statute Chapter 169 regulates captive wildlife at the state level and requires licenses for many species. Native Wisconsin wildlife cannot be kept as pets without a DNR license. Permitted exotic pets generally include small caged birds, aquarium fish, most pet reptiles that are nonvenomous and small, ferrets (with vaccination), and typical small mammals. USDA-licensed exhibits and research facilities are separately regulated. Violations can lead to seizure and placement of the animal at a licensed sanctuary.
Citations typically 300 to 1,000 dollars plus animal seizure. Possible criminal charges under WI Stat 169 for unlicensed captive wildlife.
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