Exotic Pets: Auburn vs Kent
How do exotic pets rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kent, WA?
Auburn and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn follows Washington RCW 16.30 banning private ownership of dangerous wild animals (big cats, bears, non-human primates, venomous reptiles). ACC 6.02 adds local enforcement. Ferrets are legal.
View full Auburn rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent follows RCW 16.30 which prohibits private possession of dangerous wild animals including big cats, bears, wolves, primates, elephants, and venomous reptiles. Legal pre-2007 owners grandfathered for life of animal.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | RCW 16.30 | RCW 16.30 |
| Prohibited | Big cats, bears, primates | - |
| Allowed Small | Ferrets, common reptiles | - |
| Code | ACC 6.02 | - |
| Grandfather Date | - | July 22, 2007 |
| Offense Level | - | Gross misdemeanor |
| Enforcement | - | RASKC / Kent Police |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Auburn, WA?
Yes. Ferrets are domesticated and legal in Washington and Auburn. They are not on the RCW 16.30 dangerous wild animals list.
Can I keep a wolf hybrid in Auburn?
Non-domestic wolf hybrids are banned under RCW 16.30. Only certified domesticated wolf-dog hybrids with USDA paperwork and local zoning approval may be kept, which is rare.
Kent FAQ
Can I own a big cat or primate in Kent?
No. RCW 16.30 bans private possession of potentially dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. Gross misdemeanor penalty.
Are ferrets or hedgehogs legal in Kent?
Yes. Common small exotic pets like ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and non-venomous reptiles are not on the RCW 16.30 list.
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