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Jefferson Parish, LA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

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

Key Facts

Class 1 (banned)
Big cats, bears, primates, venomous snakes
Class 2 permit
$150 from JPAWS
Class 3
No JPAWS permit needed
Venomous snakes
Licensed zoos only
Governing section
Code § 7-25

Summary

Jefferson Parish flatly bans keeping the most dangerous wild or exotic species (Class 1, such as big cats, bears, primates, venomous snakes, and wolves). Class 2 species require a $150 permit from JPAWS, and only Class 3 animals (common reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, small birds) may be kept without a JPAWS

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

No person shall keep any wild or exotic species of land animals, reptiles, or birds, warm or cold blooded that falls under Class I designated by the Jefferson Protection and Animal Welfare Services' "Rules for Wild or Exotic Animals."

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

Section 7-25 prohibits keeping any wild or exotic species designated Class 1 under the JPAWS 'Rules for Wild or Exotic Animals.' Class 1 covers primates, tigers, lions, leopards, cheetahs, bears, crocodiles, venomous snakes, hawks, eagles, owls, raccoons, wolves and wolf hybrids, and similar animals. A $150 permit from JPAWS is required for Class 2 species (African servals, savannah cats, wallabies, Burmese and reticulated pythons, Gila monsters). Class 3 includes ordinary reptiles and amphibians, rats and mice, small birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, and ferrets, and needs no JPAWS permit. Poisonous snakes are allowed only in licensed zoos. Zoos, circuses, and performing-animal exhibitions are exempt.

Violations & Fines

Keeping a prohibited or unpermitted exotic animal can result in seizure and impoundment by JPAWS and penalties under the parish Code; permit fees run $150 (Class 2) and $250 for pet-shop Class 3 possession.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a venomous snake or big cat in Jefferson Parish?
No. Section 7-25 prohibits Class 1 wild or exotic animals, including big cats, bears, primates, and venomous snakes. Poisonous snakes are allowed only in licensed zoos.
Do I need a permit for a ferret or a pet rabbit?
No. Ferrets, rabbits, small birds, guinea pigs, and common reptiles are Class 3 animals and require no JPAWS exotic-animal permit.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Jefferson Parish

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsDog Leash LawsSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsPet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsBird ProtectionHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSignificant RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: CompostingFew Restrictions

All Jefferson Parish rules

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