Westerville, OH Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- ORC 2927.21
- Banned Species
- Big cats, bears, primates, crocs, venomous snakes
- Allowed
- Ferrets, rabbits, small reptiles
- Max Penalty
- 4th degree felony
Summary
Westerville prohibits dangerous wild animals and restricted snakes under CO 505 and ORC 2927.21 (Ohio Dangerous Wild Animals Act). Big cats, bears, primates, crocodilians, and venomous snakes are banned. Common exotic pets like ferrets, rabbits, and small reptiles are allowed.
No person shall possess a dangerous wild animal on or after January 1, 2014. (B)(1) Except as provided in divisions (G)(1) and (2) of section 935.06 of the Revised Code, no person shall acquire, buy, sell, trade, or transfer possession or ownership of a dangerous wild animal on or after the effective date of this section. (2) Notwithstanding division (B)(1) of this section, a person that operates a rescue facility may acquire, except by purchase, possession or ownership of a dangerous wild animal if one of the following applies: (a) Prior to January 1, 2014, the person is authorized to do so by the director of agriculture in accordance with procedures adopted by the director.
Full Breakdown
Ohio's Dangerous Wild Animals and Restricted Snakes Act (ORC 2927.21, passed after the 2011 Zanesville incident) prohibits private ownership of lions, tigers, bears, elephants, primates, crocodilians, large constrictor snakes over 12 feet, and venomous snakes without a state permit. Westerville adopts this state framework. Existing grandfathered owners must register annually with the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Common household exotics (ferrets, chinchillas, hedgehogs, small reptiles, non-venomous small snakes) are permitted under general animal keeping rules.
Violations & Fines
Unlicensed possession of dangerous wild animal: 4th degree felony, fines up to $10,000 and animal confiscation under ORC 2927.21.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Westerville
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Franklin County handle exotic pets.