Exotic Pets: Kent vs Redmond
How do exotic pets rules compare between Kent, WA and Redmond, WA?
Kent and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent follows RCW 16.30 which prohibits private possession of dangerous wild animals including big cats, bears, wolves, primates, elephants, and venomous reptiles. Legal pre-2007 owners grandfathered for life of animal.
View full Kent rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond follows RCW 16.30 and King County Code 11.04, which prohibit potentially dangerous wild animals including big cats, primates, venomous snakes, and bears without state permit.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | RCW 16.30 | RCW 16.30 |
| Grandfather Date | July 22, 2007 | - |
| Offense Level | Gross misdemeanor | - |
| Enforcement | RASKC / Kent Police | - |
| Prohibited | - | Big cats, primates, bears |
| Allowed | - | Hedgehogs, ferrets, chinchillas |
| Grandfather | - | Pre-July 2007 only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Can I own a big cat or primate in Kent?
No. RCW 16.30 bans private possession of potentially dangerous wild animals including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys. Gross misdemeanor penalty.
Are ferrets or hedgehogs legal in Kent?
Yes. Common small exotic pets like ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and non-venomous reptiles are not on the RCW 16.30 list.
Redmond FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Redmond?
Yes. Ferrets are allowed under Washington state law and Redmond municipal code. Some HOAs restrict them, so check CC&Rs.
Are wolf hybrids legal in Redmond?
Only lower-generation wolf hybrids (F4 or later) are generally allowed. Higher hybrid content is regulated as a dangerous wild animal.
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