Exotic Pets: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do exotic pets rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg follows Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 (Section 5-202), which prohibits possession of dangerous wild animals including large cats, bears, wolves, venomous reptiles, crocodilians, and non-human primates. The prohibition covers both ownership and harboring of these animals within county limits. Maryland Natural Resources Article 10-901 through 10-905 adds state-level restrictions on importing, possessing, and breeding non-native wildlife species, requiring permits from the Department of Natural Resources for regulated species. Exotic bird aviaries must be set back at least 100 feet from any neighboring dwelling or workplace to minimize noise and odor impacts. Ferrets are legal in Maryland and not classified as dangerous animals. Common exotic pets such as non-venomous reptiles, small rodents like hedgehogs and chinchillas, and tropical fish are generally permitted as household pets without special licensing. Violations of the dangerous animal prohibition result in civil citations, animal seizure by Montgomery County Animal Services, and fines up to $500 per offense.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Maryland Criminal Law 10-621 prohibits possession of foxes, skunks, raccoons, bears, caimans, alligators, crocodiles, wild cats, wolves, nonhuman primates, and venomous snakes statewide. Rockville residents are additionally subject to Montgomery County Code Chapter 5, which bans possession of any wild or dangerous animal without authorization from Animal Services.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Large cats, bears, wolves, venomous reptiles, primates | - |
| County Code | Montgomery County Code Chapter 5, Sec. 5-202 | Montgomery County Chapter 5 |
| State Law | MD Natural Resources Article 10-901+ | MD Criminal Law 10-621 |
| Exotic Bird Aviary | 100-ft setback from neighbor's dwelling | - |
| Prohibited Species | - | Wild cats, primates, venomous snakes, bears, wolves, others |
| Max Fine | - | Up to $1,000 (state) |
| Exotic Birds | - | Permitted with aviary setback of 100 feet |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Gaithersburg?
Yes. Ferrets are legal in Maryland and Montgomery County. They are not classified as dangerous wild animals under Chapter 5 and do not require a special permit. Standard pet care and rabies vaccination are recommended.
What happens if I have a prohibited exotic animal?
Montgomery County Animal Services can seize the animal and issue a civil citation with fines up to $500 per offense. You may be required to surrender the animal to a licensed wildlife facility. Contact Animal Services at 240-773-5900 to ask about specific species before acquiring an exotic pet.
Rockville FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Rockville?
Maryland law prohibits possession of foxes, skunks, raccoons, bears, alligators, crocodiles, wild cats, wolves, nonhuman primates, and venomous snakes. Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 adds a blanket ban on wild or dangerous animals. Common exotic pets like reptiles (non-venomous), fish, and small birds are generally permitted.
What happens if I am found with a prohibited exotic animal?
Possession of a prohibited exotic animal is a misdemeanor under Maryland law with fines up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail. Montgomery County Animal Services may also seize the animal and impose additional civil penalties.
Are exotic birds allowed in Rockville?
Yes, but aviaries housing exotic or domestic birds must be at least 100 feet from any neighboring structure used for habitation or work. Birds kept inside your home are exempt from this setback requirement.
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