Springfield, OR Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Section 5.402 defines 'Exotic Animals' as four categories: any lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, ocelot or other cat not indigenous to Oregon (expressly excluding Felis catus, the domestic cat); any monkey, ape, gorilla or other non-human primate; any wolf or canine not indigenous to Oregon (expressly excluding Canis familiaris, the domestic dog); and any bear other than the native black bear. Section 5.476(1) and (2) then make it unlawful for any person to keep wildlife or an exotic animal located within the city limits. Two exceptions apply: wildlife and exotic animals kept in a humane environment under trained supervision for a permitted carnival, circus or special event under Section 5.476(3), and animals housed at facilities of School District #19 or at private pet-sale businesses that comply with all applicable federal, state and local regulations under Section 5.476(4).

Springfield's 'Wildlife' definition in Section 5.402 separately incorporates ORS 496.004 and lists species such as black bear, cougar, coyote, deer, bobcat and raccoon, all of which are likewise banned as pets under Section 5.476(1). A violation of any part of Section 5.476 is punishable under Section 1.205 with a fine up to $720.00, and the animal control authority or Springfield Police may impound a wildlife or exotic animal found in violation under the general impoundment authority in Section 5.474.