Exotic Pets: Bellevue vs Seattle
How do exotic pets rules compare between Bellevue, WA and Seattle, WA?
Bellevue and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Bellevue, WA
King County
Bellevue bans mink, foxes, and hogs under LUC 20.20.130. RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals (big cats, bears, primates) statewide with $200-$2,000 per animal per day fines.
View full Bellevue rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellevue | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ban | Mink, foxes, hogs | - |
| State Ban | Big cats, bears, primates | - |
| Penalty | $200-$2,000/animal/day | - |
| Code | LUC 20.20.130, RCW 16.30 | SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30 |
| Farm Animals | - | Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly |
| Mini Goats/Pigs | - | Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit |
| Exotic Wildlife | - | RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellevue FAQ
Can I own a pet monkey in Bellevue?
No. Nonhuman primates are banned statewide under RCW 16.30 with no grandfather exceptions for acquisitions after 2007.
Are ferrets legal in Bellevue?
Yes. Ferrets are legal domestic pets in Washington state and Bellevue, unlike some states.
Seattle FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Seattle?
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Seattle?
Code: SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30. Farm Animals: Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly. Mini Goats/Pigs: Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit. Exotic Wildlife: RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals.
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