Lancaster County, PA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- County rule
- None: state permit
- Permitting agency
- PA Game Commission
- Statute
- 34 Pa.C.S. §2963
- Permit required
- Yes, before possession
- Violation
- Summary offense
Summary
You cannot own exotic wildlife in Lancaster County without a state permit. The PA Game Commission (34 Pa.C.S. §2963) requires a possession permit for exotic wildlife, and it is unlawful to keep such animals without one.
It is unlawful for any person to possess, purchase or receive exotic wildlife, without first securing a permit to possess exotic wildlife issued under this section or regulations pertaining to this section.
Full Breakdown
Exotic-wildlife possession is governed statewide by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, not the county. Under 34 Pa.C.S. §2963, no one may possess, purchase, or receive exotic wildlife, such as big cats, bears, wolves, and certain nonhuman primates, without first securing a Game Commission permit, and the Commission will not grant one until it is satisfied housing and public-safety provisions are proper. Separately, municipalities may restrict or prohibit exotic or wild animals in residential zones. Common domestic pets are unaffected. Contact the Game Commission's Southeast Region office before acquiring any regulated exotic animal.
Violations & Fines
Possessing exotic wildlife without a permit is a summary offense; accumulated field-receipt penalties are capped at $300, with no limit on penalties a court may assess. Each day is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic animal in Lancaster County?
Does the county issue exotic-pet permits?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lancaster County
Compare Lancaster County to another location·View the Pennsylvania animal ordinances overview
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