Exotic Pets: Renton vs Seattle
How do exotic pets rules compare between Renton, WA and Seattle, WA?
Renton and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Renton, WA
King County
Renton prohibits dangerous exotic animals under RMC 6-6 and RCW 16.30, banning large cats, primates, venomous reptiles, bears, and wolves while allowing common pets and non-venomous snakes.
View full Renton rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Renton | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Controlling Law | RCW 16.30 Dangerous Wild Animals | - |
| Big Cats Ban | Felines over 15 lbs | - |
| Primates | All prohibited | - |
| Venomous Reptiles | Prohibited | - |
| Common Pets | Legal (reptiles, birds, fish) | - |
| Code | - | SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30 |
| Farm Animals | - | Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly |
| Mini Goats/Pigs | - | Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit |
| Exotic Wildlife | - | RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Renton FAQ
Can I own a ball python in Renton?
Yes. Non-venomous snakes including ball pythons, corn snakes, and king snakes are legal pets and are not on the state dangerous wild animal list.
Are ferrets legal in Renton?
Yes. Ferrets are legal in Washington and in Renton. They should be vaccinated against rabies and kept in appropriate enclosures.
Seattle FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Seattle?
Seattle Municipal Code Title 9 and Washington State law (RCW 16.30) restrict exotic animals. Farm animals (cows, horses, full-size goats, swine) are only permitted on lots over 20,000 sq ft. Miniature goats and small potbelly pigs (1 max) are allowed with restrictions on smaller lots.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Seattle?
Code: SMC Title 9 / RCW 16.30. Farm Animals: Lots > 20,000 sq ft only; no swine except mini potbelly. Mini Goats/Pigs: Allowed with restrictions; counts toward small animal limit. Exotic Wildlife: RCW 16.30 prohibits dangerous wild animals.
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