Exotic Pets: Denver vs Phoenix
How do exotic pets rules compare between Denver, CO and Phoenix, AZ?
Denver and Phoenix have similar restriction levels.
Denver, CO
Denver County
Denver DRMC Chapter 8 prohibits numerous exotic animals including big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates, venomous reptiles, and large constrictors. Violations carry significant fines.
View full Denver rules →Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix City Code Chapter 8, Section 8-6 regulates reptiles and wild animals. Arizona state law (ARS §17-306) prohibits importing, transporting, or possessing live wildlife without authorization from the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Only species specifically authorized by the commission may be kept as pets.
View full Phoenix rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Denver | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates | - |
| Also Prohibited | Venomous snakes, large constrictors | - |
| Code Section | DRMC Chapter 8 | - |
| Enforcement | Denver Animal Protection | - |
| Max Fine | Up to $999 | - |
| City Code | - | Chapter 8, §8-6 (Reptiles/Wild Animals) |
| State Law | - | ARS §17-306 |
| Authority | - | AZ Game and Fish Department |
| Miniature Pigs | - | Allowed, max 125 lbs, max 3 per household |
| Swine | - | Banned except purebred miniature pigs (§8-8) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Denver FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Denver?
Denver DRMC Chapter 8 prohibits numerous exotic animals including big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates, venomous reptiles, and large constrictors. Violations carry significant fines.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Denver?
Prohibited: Big cats, wolves, foxes, raccoons, primates. Also Prohibited: Venomous snakes, large constrictors. Code Section: DRMC Chapter 8. Enforcement: Denver Animal Protection.
Phoenix FAQ
Can I keep exotic animals in Phoenix?
Arizona law (ARS §17-306) prohibits possessing live wildlife without Game and Fish Department authorization. Phoenix City Code §8-6 provides additional local restrictions on reptiles and wild animals. Only specifically authorized species may be kept as pets.
Can I keep a miniature pig in Phoenix?
Yes. Under §8-8, purebred miniature Vietnamese potbelly pigs and similar miniature breeds are allowed if they do not exceed 125 pounds. A maximum of 3 miniature pigs per household is permitted. Standard swine are banned.
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