New York State ECL §11-0512 prohibits keeping wild animals as pets statewide. This includes large cats, bears, wolves, primates, and venomous reptiles. No county exemption applies in Monroe County.
New York Environmental Conservation Law §11-0512 bans the possession of wild animals as pets throughout the state, including in Monroe County. Prohibited animals include but are not limited to: large cats (lions, tigers, cougars), bears, wolves and wolf-hybrids, primates, venomous reptiles, and crocodilians. Certain animals may be kept under DEC-issued licenses for educational, zoological, or rehabilitation purposes. Domestic pets including cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, and common livestock species are not affected by this prohibition. Monroe County does not have a separate exotic animal ordinance — state law controls. The Monroe County Department of Health and NYS DEC Region 8 jointly handle complaints about exotic animals.
Criminal penalties under NY ECL. DEC can confiscate animals and issue fines. Criminal charges possible.
Monroe County, NY
City of Rochester prohibits on-street parking 2 AM to 6 AM year-round under Municipal Code §111-5 (alternate side not in effect; blanket overnight ban). Resi...
Monroe County, NY
Monroe County towns specify approved fence materials in zoning codes. Wood, vinyl, chain-link, and wrought iron standard. Barbed wire banned in residential z...
Monroe County, NY
NY State Uniform Code (Residential Code §R404) requires engineered design for retaining walls over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing. Monroe County muni...
Monroe County, NY
Monroe County does not have a separate countywide smoke-alarm ordinance; smoke-alarm requirements come from the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Bu...
Monroe County, NY
Monroe County is not designated a high wildfire hazard area. No defensible space requirements. NY DEC Part 215 brush burn ban (March 16 – May 14) is the prim...
Monroe County, NY
Monroe County follows NY DEC Part 215 seasonal burn ban (March 16 to May 14). Property owners must keep lots clear under town property maintenance codes. No ...
See how Monroe County's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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