Olympia, WA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Olympia regulates exotic pets through registration and containment in Chapter 6.04 of the Olympia Municipal Code. OMC 6.04.030(L) defines an exotic animal as an animal, such as, but not limited to, venomous or constrictor type reptiles, or primates. OMC 6.04.040(J) then covers owners of constrictor type reptiles over eight feet in length, venomous reptiles, and primates that are not otherwise prohibited. They must comply with all state and federal laws for keeping such animals and must annually register them with Animal Services by completing a form provided by Animal Services. The phrase not otherwise prohibited means the registration route applies only to animals that no other law bars.

Containment is a separate duty under OMC 6.04.080. A humane and secure facility must be provided for constrictor type reptiles over eight feet in length and all venomous reptiles. An escape of any venomous reptile or constrictor type reptile must be reported immediately to Animal Services.

Other provisions of the chapter reach exotic animals too. OMC 6.04.050(D) makes it a violation when an exotic animal causes injury to a person or to a domestic, exotic or pet animal, and OMC 6.04.050(G) requires humane care for exotic animals. Under OMC 6.04.110(G), the Animal Services Director can classify other animals as dangerous under the same criteria used for dogs and require the owner to control or confine the animal. A violation after such a designation is handled like a violation of OMC 6.04.110(F). OMC 6.04.060(F)(1) leaves intact the right to destroy any venomous reptile or any animal known as dangerous to life, limb, or property.

Animal Services enforces for the cities of Lacey, Olympia and Tumwater and Thurston County.