Exotic Pets: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do exotic pets rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge prohibits exotic and wild animals as pets, following Massachusetts state law (321 CMR 9.01) which restricts dangerous species to licensed facilities.
View full Cambridge rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts maintains one of the strictest exotic pet lists in the country, and Waltham follows state rules prohibiting most wild and dangerous animals.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| State Regulation | 321 CMR 9.01 | - |
| Banned Species | Primates, big cats, venomous, etc. | - |
| Enforcement | MassWildlife + Animal Commission | - |
| Research Exception | Licensed facilities only | - |
| Common Pets | Allowed (dogs, cats, fish, etc.) | - |
| State Rule | - | 321 CMR 9.01 |
| Prohibited | - | Primates, big cats, venomous |
| Allowed | - | Standard pets only |
| Agency | - | MassWildlife |
| Max Fine | - | 500 dollars |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I own a ball python or bearded dragon in Cambridge?
Yes. Non-venomous small reptiles on the MA exempt list are allowed without special permit.
Can I keep a hedgehog or sugar glider in Cambridge?
No. Both species are prohibited under Massachusetts 321 CMR 9.01.
Waltham FAQ
Can I own a sugar glider in Waltham?
Sugar gliders are prohibited under Massachusetts exotic animal regulations.
Are ferrets legal?
Yes, domestic ferrets are legal in Massachusetts and Waltham.
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