Exotic Pets: Sandy vs West Valley City
How do exotic pets rules compare between Sandy, UT and West Valley City, UT?
Sandy and West Valley City have similar restriction levels.
Sandy, UT
Salt Lake County
Sandy prohibits dangerous and exotic animals as pets, including big cats, primates, venomous reptiles, and wolf hybrids. Utah Code R657-3 also restricts native wildlife possession.
View full Sandy rules →West Valley City, UT
Salt Lake County
West Valley City prohibits keeping wild or exotic animals (lions, tigers, bears, venomous reptiles, primates) per WVC Code 6-1. Utah DNR permits required for native wildlife.
View full West Valley City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Sandy | West Valley City |
|---|---|---|
| Big Cats | Prohibited | - |
| Primates | Prohibited | - |
| Venomous | Prohibited | - |
| State Rule | DWR R657-3 | - |
| Banned | - | Wild and exotic |
| State Authority | - | Utah DWR R657-3 |
| Category | - | Prohibited species |
| Permit | - | COR required |
| Penalty | - | Class B misdemeanor |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Sandy FAQ
Can I own a monkey in Sandy?
No. Primates and other exotic mammals are not allowed as pets.
Who enforces this?
Sandy at (801) 568-7100.
West Valley City FAQ
Can I keep a pet monkey or serval in West Valley City?
No. Non-human primates and non-domestic cats (including servals, caracals, and bobcats) are prohibited under both WVC Title 6 and Utah Admin Code R657-3.
What about hedgehogs and sugar gliders?
Hedgehogs are illegal in Utah under R657-3. Sugar gliders are generally permitted as they are domesticated. Verify with Utah DWR before purchase.
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