Oregon ORS 609.305-609.335 bans private possession of 'exotic animals' — non-human primates, non-domesticated felines (lions, tigers, leopards), wolves, bears, and crocodilians — unless the owner held a permit before January 1, 2010 (grandfathered). Multnomah County Code 13.001 reiterates the prohibition and authorizes MCAS to impound illegally kept exotic animals. Reptiles, parrots, ferrets, and pot-bellied pigs are generally allowed in Portland subject to the specified-animal permit rules (MCC 13.05).
Oregon's exotic animal statute (ORS 609.305) prohibits any person from keeping, possessing, importing, or selling an 'exotic animal' as defined in ORS 609.305(2): non-human primates, non-wolf canids and non-domestic felines (except domestic cats), bears (except black bears), and crocodilians (alligators, crocodiles, caimans). Permits were eliminated for new applicants in 2009; only pre-2010 grandfathered owners may continue possession under ORS 609.319 with annual ODA inspection. The state separately regulates native wildlife (ORS 497.298) and pet venomous snakes under ORS 609.435. Within Portland, MCC 13.001 and 13.501 give MCAS authority to investigate and impound illegally kept exotics; reports also go to Oregon Department of Agriculture. Common 'unusual' pets that ARE legal in Portland include ferrets, pot-bellied pigs (under MCC 13.05.015(D)), domestic rabbits, non-venomous reptiles, sugar gliders, and most parrots and small rodents.
Possession of an exotic animal in violation of ORS 609.305 is a Class A misdemeanor under ORS 609.992, with the animal subject to forfeiture and owner responsible for boarding/transport costs. Multnomah County also issues civil citations under MCC 13.999 for keeping illegal animals. Convictions can include orders barring future ownership and restitution for sanctuary placement.
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