Olathe, KS Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 8.10.070, Olathe Municipal Code
- Definition source
- § 8.02.020: untamed wild animal
- Exceptions
- Zoos, circuses, licensed vets, schools
- Removal deadline
- 3 days after police notice
- Enforced by
- Olathe Chief of Police / Animal Control
Summary
Olathe Municipal Code § 8.10.070 bars keeping any dangerous wild animal, an untamed mammal, reptile, or fowl, as a pet or for display anywhere in the city, with narrow exceptions for zoos, circuses, and licensed veterinary or educational institutions.
(A) No person shall keep or permit to be kept on his premises any dangerous animal for display or for exhibition purposes whether gratuitously or for a fee. This section will not be construed to apply to zoological parks, performing animal exhibitions or circuses, bona fide licensed veterinary hospital for treatment, bona fide educational or medical institutions, museums, or any other place where they are kept as live exhibits or for study. (B) No person shall keep or permit to be kept any dangerous animal as a pet.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 26-39, passed July 21, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Olathe Municipal Code § 8.10.070 makes it unlawful to keep or permit any 'dangerous animal' as a pet or for display or exhibition purposes, with carve-outs only for zoological parks, circuses, bona fide licensed veterinary hospitals, and educational or medical institutions. Section 8.02.020 defines a dangerous animal as any wild mammal, reptile, or fowl that is not naturally tame and, given its size or vicious nature, endangers people or property unless kept securely. On written complaint, the Chief of Police investigates and can order the animal removed from the city within three days; if it has already caused serious harm or is loose, it may be seized, tranquilized, or killed immediately, with all costs charged to the owner.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a dangerous wild animal as a pet triggers a removal order within three days of notice; if the owner doesn't comply, police can seize, impound, or euthanize the animal, billing all seizure and confinement costs to the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet snake or exotic bird in Olathe?
What happens if animal control finds a dangerous wild animal at my house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Olathe
Compare Olathe to another location·View the Kansas animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Johnson County handle exotic pets.