Multnomah County, OR Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Unlawful to harbor or own
- Covered animals
- Big cats, primates, wolves, bears, venomous reptiles
- Exemptions
- AZA zoos, USDA exhibitors, licensed researchers
- Penalty
- $100-$500 fine, Class A infraction
- Reach
- Countywide, including Portland residents
Summary
Multnomah County makes it unlawful to harbor or own a dangerous or exotic animal, lions, primates, bears, venomous reptiles, large constrictors, anywhere in the county, with narrow exemptions for accredited zoos, licensed researchers, and USDA-licensed exhibitors.
(A) It is unlawful to harbor and/or own an exotic or dangerous animal. (B) The following facilities, institutions, persons, entities, associations and government agencies are exempt from compliance with § 13.154(A): (1) Any facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA); (2) Any licensed or accredited research or medical institution, including any such institution dedicated to the training of exotic primates for service animals.
Full Breakdown
Multnomah County Code § 13.154(A) makes it unlawful to harbor or own a dangerous or exotic animal, defined in § 13.002 to include big cats such as lions and tigers, non-human primates, wolves, bears, venomous reptiles, and crocodilians or constrictor snakes reaching eight feet. Seven exemptions apply: AZA-accredited zoos, licensed research or medical institutions (including exotic-primate service-animal training), accredited schools, veterinary clinics treating the animal, transport through the county under three days, USDA-licensed exhibitors or breeders, and owners of a trained exotic-primate service animal who file a sworn affidavit. Animal Services, the county's licensing agency, enforces this countywide, including inside Portland, which relies on the county for animal control.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 13.154 is a Class A infraction under § 13.999: $100-$500 for a first offense, rising to $500 or more for a third within 12 months, plus immediate impoundment of the animal by Animal Control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a pet tiger or wolf-hybrid in Multnomah County?
Does this rule apply if I live in Portland?
Are accredited zoos or licensed exhibitors exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Multnomah County
Compare Multnomah County to another location·View the Oregon animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.