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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Exotic Pets

Exotic Pets: Kailua vs Kaneohe

How do exotic pets rules compare between Kailua, HI and Kaneohe, HI?

Kailua and Kaneohe have similar restriction levels.

Kailua, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Exotic pet ownership in Kailua is regulated almost entirely at the state level. Hawaii bans hamsters, gerbils, ferrets, snakes, and many other species to protect the island ecosystem.

View full Kailua rules β†’

Kaneohe, HI

Honolulu County

Heavy Restrictions

Exotic pets in Kaneohe are regulated at the state level with one of the strictest prohibited animal lists in the United States, protecting Kaneohe Bay's sensitive ecosystems.

View full Kaneohe rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactKailuaKaneohe
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Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Kailua FAQ

Can I legally own a pet snake in Kailua?

No. Snakes are illegal to keep in Hawaii under state law, with narrow research and zoo exceptions.

What about a hamster for my child?

Hamsters are prohibited statewide. Consider a guinea pig, which is permitted.

Kaneohe FAQ

Can I legally own a bearded dragon in Kaneohe?

No. Most lizards are on the prohibited list. Check the HDOA restricted and conditional lists before acquiring any reptile.

What do I do with an illegal pet I already have?

Contact HDOA. Voluntary surrender typically avoids prosecution compared to discovery during an inspection.

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