Sioux Falls, SD Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Sioux Falls Chapter 90, Section 90.003 (Restricted Animals) makes it unlawful for any person to keep, maintain, or sell native fur bearers, bears, mountain lions, bobcats, lynx, panthers, endangered species, exotic animals, or venomous snakes within the city. The chief of police is authorized to declare additional animals restricted as warranted. The companion section, § 90.008, expressly permits keeping domestic cats, ferrets (European polecat — Mustela putorius furo), and domestic dogs, subject to other Chapter 90 provisions (licensing, pet number limits, vaccination, nuisance, leashing). The exotic-animal ban is broad — it captures big cats, primates, non-native venomous reptiles, and large constrictors as a matter of city interpretation. The only exception is for licensed wildlife rehabilitators caring for injured or abandoned native birds and animals. The ordinance is breed-neutral in compliance with SDCL § 40-34-16, which preempts breed-specific dog regulation statewide. Possession of native South Dakota wildlife is also separately regulated by SD Game, Fish and Parks under SDCL Title 41.