Exotic Pets: Cleveland vs Lakewood
How do exotic pets rules compare between Cleveland, OH and Lakewood, OH?
Cleveland and Lakewood have similar restriction levels.
Cleveland, OH
Cuyahoga County
Ohio's Dangerous Wild Animal Act (Revised Code Chapter 935), enacted in 2012 after the Zanesville incident, bans private ownership of most dangerous wild animals statewide, including big cats, bears, elephants, non-human primates, crocodiles, alligators, and certain venomous snakes. Cleveland residents cannot legally acquire these animals, and owners who had them prior to the law had to register and comply with permit, caging, insurance, and microchipping rules. The state Department of Agriculture enforces Chapter 935.
View full Cleveland rules →Lakewood, OH
Cuyahoga County
Dangerous wild animals (big cats, bears, primates, venomous snakes, large constrictors) are banned in Lakewood under ORC 935. Common exotic pets (ferrets, reptiles under thresholds, parrots) are allowed under LCO 505.
View full Lakewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cleveland | Lakewood |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | ORC Chapter 935 — Dangerous Wild Animal Act | ORC 935 DWA Act |
| Enacted | 2012 after Zanesville incident | - |
| Banned Species | Big cats, bears, primates, large constrictors, venomous snakes | - |
| Insurance (DWA) | $200,000 liability | - |
| Enforcement | Ohio Department of Agriculture | - |
| Banned | - | Big cats, bears, primates |
| Snake Limit | - | 12 feet constrictors |
| Code | - | LCO 505 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cleveland FAQ
Can I own a monkey or big cat in Cleveland?
No. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 935 bans private possession of non-human primates, big cats, bears, and other dangerous wild animals. Only existing registered owners and certain accredited facilities may hold permits.
Are venomous snakes legal in Cleveland?
Venomous snakes and constrictors over 12 feet are classified as "restricted snakes" under ORC §935.02 and require a state wildlife shelter or propagation permit, plus $100,000 liability insurance. Casual ownership is prohibited.
What pets are legal in Cleveland without a special permit?
Dogs, cats, rabbits, small mammals, most birds, fish, and reptiles not listed in Chapter 935 are legal. Dogs must be licensed annually through Cuyahoga County.
Lakewood FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Lakewood?
Lakewood has a very restrictive animal ordinance under §505.18. Prohibited animals include all venomous snakes, apes, baboons, bears, bovines (goats, sheep, bison), deer, horses, and most game birds. Ohio's Dangerous Wild Animal Act (ORC §935) also bans big cats, crocodilians, and large...
What exotic animals are prohibited in Lakewood?
Local Ban: Snakes, apes, bears, bovines, deer, horses. Game Birds: Prohibited except hens with permit. State Law: ORC §935 Dangerous Wild Animal Act. Ordinance: §505.18.
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