Exotic Pets: McKeesport vs Pittsburgh
How do exotic pets rules compare between McKeesport, PA and Pittsburgh, PA?
McKeesport has fewer restrictions than Pittsburgh.
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 →Pittsburgh, PA
Allegheny County
Pennsylvania prohibits possession of exotic wildlife without a PA Game Commission permit (34 Pa.C.S. §2961). Pittsburgh's zoning code (Chapter 473) restricts farm animals and does not permit exotic/wild animals as pets. Only domestic animals and permitted livestock listed in the Use Regulations are allowed.
View full Pittsburgh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | McKeesport | Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|
| Local Ordinance | No McKeesport-specific exotic pets ordinance | - |
| State Law | 58 Pa. Code Subchapter N; 34 Pa.C.S. §2964 | 34 Pa.C.S. §2961 — PGC permit required |
| Emu Classification | Medium-sized exotic | - |
| Required Paddock | 500 sq ft (+25% per additional) | - |
| Permit Authority | PA Game Commission (717-783-8164) | - |
| Prohibited | - | Lions, tigers, bears, wolves, coyotes without permit |
| Fine | - | Up to $500/day (PA Game Commission) |
| Local Code | - | Chapter 473 limits to domestic animals |
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.
Pittsburgh FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Pittsburgh?
Pennsylvania prohibits possession of exotic wildlife without a PA Game Commission permit (34 Pa.C.S. §2961). Pittsburgh's zoning code (Chapter 473) restricts farm animals and does not permit exotic/wild animals as pets. Only domestic animals and permitted livestock listed in the Use Regulations...
What exotic animals are prohibited in Pittsburgh?
State Law: 34 Pa.C.S. §2961 — PGC permit required. Prohibited: Lions, tigers, bears, wolves, coyotes without permit. Fine: Up to $500/day (PA Game Commission). Local Code: Chapter 473 limits to domestic animals.
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