Alabama Restricted Exotic and Nonindigenous Animal Rules

Administrative Code 220-2-.26, adopted by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources under authority of Title 9, restricts possession, sale, importation, and release of fish, mussels, snails, crayfish, mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians designated as nonindigenous and harmful. Prohibited species include various big cats, bears, primates, venomous reptiles not native, piranhas, and walking catfish. A permit from the Commissioner is required for restricted species. Title 13A-11-14.1 separately criminalizes ownership and breeding of dangerous wild animals captured from the wild without permit. These rules preempt local rules to the extent of conflict.

Class C misdemeanor or Class B felony depending on species; seizure of animals; fines up to $5,000; permanent prohibition on future possession upon conviction.