Ogden, UT Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Section 13-2-1 defines wild animals broadly as any animal not commonly domesticated or of a wild or predatory nature that would pose an unreasonable danger if not securely confined, then lists examples including alligators, caimans and crocodiles; all bears; the cat family except domestic cats, naming cheetah, cougar, leopard, lion, lynx, panther, mountain lion and tiger; the dog family except domesticated dogs, naming wolf, fox and coyote; porcupines; all nonhuman primates; raccoons; skunks; venomous fish and piranha; venomous snakes and lizards and any snake over nine feet; and the weasel family including wolverine and black-footed ferret.

Section 13-3-6(A) makes it unlawful for any person to sell, offer for sale, barter, give away, keep or purchase such an animal, or any animal that is otherwise fierce, dangerous, noxious or naturally inclined to do harm. The prohibition exempts the animal shelter, a zoological park, a veterinary hospital, a humane society shelter, a public laboratory, a circus, sideshow, amusement show, wildlife preserve, or an education or scientific facility, provided the animal is kept in protective devices adequate to prevent escape or injury to the public.

Section 13-3-6(C) separately bars keeping any species protected under federal wildlife regulations, with an exception for licensed falconers holding valid state and federal falconry permits.