Does Scott County, MN have its own exotic pets ordinance?

No. Scott County, MN does not appear to have a local exotic pets ordinance, Minnesota state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from Minnesota Statutes.

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Scott County

Scott County, MN Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

State Law: Minn. Stat. Sec. 346.155
Prohibited: Big cats, bears, primates
Cutoff: No new ownership after 2005
Wildlife: Minnesota DNR
Local: City rules add limits

Summary

Minnesota bans private possession of "regulated animals", big cats, bears, and primates, statewide under Section 346.155, on top of local rules. Scott County cities also restrict animals unsuited to residential keeping. Native wildlife is managed by the Minnesota DNR.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Scott County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Except as provided in this section, it is unlawful for a person to possess a regulated animal.

Source: Minnesota StatutesView official code

Full Breakdown

Minnesota regulates dangerous exotics at the state level. Minnesota Statutes Section 346.155 makes it unlawful to possess a regulated animal, which covers all large cats, bears, and nonhuman primates, and bars acquiring or breeding them after January 1, 2005, with narrow exceptions for USDA-licensed facilities, accredited zoos, and sanctuaries. Shakopee, Savage, and Prior Lake add local prohibitions and nuisance rules for animals not suited to a residential lot. Native and game species are managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Before acquiring any unusual animal, confirm both the state law and your city ordinance, because an escaped exotic is a public-safety emergency.

Violations & Fines

Possessing a prohibited regulated animal can bring confiscation, state penalties, and charges under Section 346.155, plus local citations. The owner is liable for any harm an escaped animal causes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep an exotic animal in Scott County?

Many are banned. Minnesota Statute 346.155 prohibits possessing big cats, bears, and primates statewide, and cities add their own limits. Confirm both before acquiring any unusual animal.

Who handles native wildlife problems?

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources manages native and game species. City animal control handles domestic animals and local ordinance matters.

Sources & Official References

[1]Minnesota Statutes

Other rules in Scott County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome Restrictions Dog Leash LawsSome Restrictions Breed RestrictionsSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome Restrictions Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence RulesSome Restrictions

All Scott County rules

Compare Scott County to another location·View the Minnesota animal ordinances overview

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.