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Butler County, OH Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

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

Key Facts

Governing law
ORC Ch. 935
Possession ban
Since January 1, 2014
Covered
Big cats, bears, primates, gators
Restricted snakes
Venomous; large constrictors 12ft+
Permits
Ohio Dept. of Agriculture

Summary

Ohio's Dangerous Wild Animal Act (ORC Ch. 935) bans private ownership of big cats, bears, primates, large constrictors, and venomous snakes statewide. Butler County adds no separate exotic-pet ordinance; the state prohibition controls.

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

No person shall possess a dangerous wild animal on or after January 1, 2014. ... no person shall acquire, buy, sell, trade, or transfer possession or ownership of a dangerous wild animal on or after the effective date of this section.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Ohio Revised Code Chapter 935 prohibits possessing a 'dangerous wild animal' on or after January 1, 2014, and bans acquiring, buying, selling, trading, or transferring one, except for grandfathered owners with a state permit and licensed sanctuaries. Covered animals include big and some small exotic cats, bears, hyenas, gray wolves, alligators, crocodiles, and most primates. 'Restricted snakes' include venomous species (any size) and large constrictors such as Burmese, African rock, and reticulated pythons and anacondas at or over twelve feet. The Ohio Department of Agriculture administers permits. Butler County has no additional exotic-pet code; common domestic pets are unaffected.

Violations & Fines

Illegal possession or transfer of a dangerous wild animal or restricted snake is a criminal offense under ORC 935.99, with seizure of the animal and fines administered by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I own a tiger or monkey in Butler County?
No. ORC 935.02 bans possessing dangerous wild animals such as big cats, bears, and primates since 2014, except grandfathered owners holding a state permit. Butler County follows the state ban.
Are pet snakes legal?
Most are. Only 'restricted snakes' - all venomous species and large constrictors (Burmese, reticulated, African rock pythons and anacondas) twelve feet or longer - are regulated under ORC Ch. 935.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Butler County

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsDog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome Restrictions

All Butler County rules

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