Walla Walla County, WA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Section 6.04.010.G defines "animal, wild" to cover any live monkey or other nonhuman primate, bear, badger, cougar, coyote, raccoon, skunk, fox, poisonous snake, poisonous reptile, leopard, panther, tiger, lion, lynx, mountain lion, wolf, or any other warm-blooded animal that can normally be found in the wild state. Section 6.04.370.A makes it unlawful to have, keep, maintain, or possess such an animal anywhere in the county, but carves out zones other than residential where the Board of County Commissioners or its representative may approve a permit; a permit issues only on a showing that adequate safeguards exist and will be maintained to contain and control the animal, prevent danger to persons or property, and keep the animal from becoming a public or private nuisance.

Section 6.04.370.B separately bars letting a wild animal run at large in any public or private place, or within the owner's own premises in a way that endangers anyone lawfully entering. Section 6.04.370.C exempts animals in transit through the county where the owner has notified the animal control authority of the route and time and provided adequate safeguards, and exempts zoos, circuses, and medical, veterinary, or scientific research or humane education programs that maintain adequate safeguards. Violation of either subsection A or B is an offense punishable under Section 6.04.410, and enforcement runs through the Sheriff's Office, animal control officers, and humane officers under Section 6.04.400.