Exotic Pets: McKeesport vs Penn Hills
How do exotic pets rules compare between McKeesport, PA and Penn Hills, PA?
McKeesport has fewer restrictions than Penn Hills.
McKeesport, PA
Allegheny County
McKeesport has not enacted a city-specific exotic-pets ordinance distinguishing emus or other ratites. Possession of emus and other exotic wildlife in McKeesport is therefore governed by Pennsylvania state law: 58 Pa. Code Subchapter N (Exotic Wildlife Possession) and the Pennsylvania Game Commission permit program. Emus are classified as 'medium-sized' exotics under PA regulations and require a 500-square-foot paddock, with a 25% increase for each additional animal.
View full McKeesport rules →Penn Hills, PA
Allegheny County
Penn Hills prohibits wild and exotic animals in residential areas. PA Game Commission requires permits for native wildlife; venomous reptiles and large carnivores are banned outright.
View full Penn Hills rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKeesport | Penn Hills |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ordinance | No McKeesport-specific exotic pets ordinance | - |
| State Law | 58 Pa. Code Subchapter N; 34 Pa.C.S. §2964 | - |
| Emu Classification | Medium-sized exotic | - |
| Required Paddock | 500 sq ft (+25% per additional) | - |
| Permit Authority | PA Game Commission (717-783-8164) | PA Game Commission |
| Banned | - | Big cats, primates, venomous snakes |
| USDA License | - | Required for exhibitors |
| Fine | - | Up to $500 plus removal |
| Statute | - | 34 Pa.C.S. 2961 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
McKeesport FAQ
Are emus legal in McKeesport, PA?
McKeesport has no city ordinance specifically banning or authorizing emus. State law governs — under 58 Pa. Code Subchapter N, you need a Pennsylvania Game Commission exotic wildlife possession permit, a minimum 500 sq ft paddock, and your zoning district must allow livestock-type animals. Most McKeesport residential lots are unlikely to qualify under the city's zoning ordinance.
How do I get a permit?
Contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission Special Permits Enforcement Division at 717-783-8164. The PGC reviews paddock size, fencing, sanitation, and humane housing before issuing a permit under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 147.
What's the penalty for keeping an emu without a permit?
Violation of 34 Pa.C.S. §2964 / 58 Pa. Code §147 is a summary or misdemeanor offense, typically $200-$1,500 in fines plus confiscation of the animal. McKeesport may add zoning citations of $300-$1,000 if the keeping violates residential-use rules.
Penn Hills FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Penn Hills?
Almost never. PA 34 Pa.C.S. 2961 requires a PA Game Commission permit for exotic wildlife, and Penn Hills zoning separately restricts farm/exotic animals to parcels of 5+ acres. Big cats, bears, wolves, and venomous reptiles are banned.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Penn Hills?
Lions, tigers, bears, wolves, coyotes, primates, and venomous snakes under 34 Pa.C.S. 2961. Penn Hills adds zoning restrictions that prevent keeping farm/exotic animals on small residential lots. Fines up to $500/day plus seizure.
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