New York vs Philadelphia
How do exotic pets rules compare between New York, NY and Philadelphia, PA?
New York and Philadelphia have similar restriction levels.
New York, NY
New York County
NYC Health Code §161.01 prohibits keeping wild or exotic animals as pets, including all non-domesticated mammals, reptiles over certain sizes, and venomous animals. The ban covers ferrets, which are specifically prohibited under §161.01(b)(10). Violations carry fines and animal seizure.
View full New York rules →Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia County
Exotic pet ownership in Philadelphia is primarily governed by Pennsylvania state law. The PA Game Commission requires an exotic wildlife possession permit under 58 Pa. Code Chapter 147, Subchapter N. Phila. Code Chapter 10-100 regulates animals locally, including prohibitions on animals running at large under §10-104.
View full Philadelphia rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New York | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Banned Animals | Primates, large cats, wolves, ferrets | - |
| Ferret Ban | Specifically prohibited §161.01(b)(10) | - |
| Hedgehogs | Prohibited | - |
| First Offense | $200–$2,000 fine + seizure | - |
| Code | Health Code §161.01 | - |
| State Permit | - | Required per 58 Pa. Code §147 |
| Permit Cost | - | $50 annually per animal |
| Experience | - | 2 years hands-on care required |
| Local Code | - | Phila. Code Chapter 10-100 |
| At Large | - | Prohibited under §10-104 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New York FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in NYC?
No. Ferrets are specifically prohibited under NYC Health Code §161.01(b)(10). NYC is one of the few US cities that bans ferrets outright, despite them being legal in New York State. Violations carry fines of $200–$2,000 and seizure.
What exotic pets are legal in NYC?
Very few. You may keep domesticated dogs, cats, small caged birds, tropical fish, guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, and small non-venomous reptiles. All wild, non-domesticated, venomous, or large animals are prohibited under Health Code §161.01.
Philadelphia FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Philadelphia?
Pennsylvania requires an exotic wildlife possession permit from the Game Commission for most exotic animals. You need 2 years of documented hands-on care experience and pay $50 annually per animal. Primates, wolves, and certain species are prohibited.
What local animal laws apply in Philadelphia?
Phila. Code Chapter 10-100 regulates animals within city limits. Section 10-104 prohibits animals (except sterilized cats) from running at large. The city also enforces leash laws and animal cruelty provisions.
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