Rochester, NY Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Chapter 30, Article II defines "wild animal" at § 30-25 to include nonhuman primates, Felidae other than domestic Felis catus, Canidae other than domestic dogs and captive-bred fennec foxes, Ursidae (bears), venomous reptiles and named giant constrictor and monitor species including Burmese python, reticulated python, green anaconda, Komodo dragon and Nile monitor, plus Crocodylia. Section 30-26 makes it unlawful to own, bring into, possess, harbor or keep any wild animal in the city, or to let one run at large on a street or public place.

Section 30-27 adds a standalone ban on carrying, bringing or possessing a constrictor snake in any public place, defined broadly to include streets, sidewalks, parks, skywalks and workplaces, though a snake may be transported through the city if kept securely bagged. Section 30-28 lists narrow exceptions: the Seneca Park Zoo, the Animal Services Center, colleges/medical centers/universities, veterinary hospitals, licensed pet stores that register with Animal Services within 30 days and keep three years of purchaser records for any wild animal sold, transporters passing through, bona fide circuses, and exhibitions approved by Animal Services for health and safety.

Any wild animal seized or surrendered for a violation becomes city property immediately and is euthanized or otherwise lawfully disposed of, with the owner billed for the city's costs (§ 30-39D).