Colorado Statewide Rule

Colorado Restricted Exotic Wildlife Possession Statewide

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Colorado (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: C.R.S. 33-6-109
Regulation: 2 CCR 406-11 (Ch. W-11)
Regulator: CO Parks and Wildlife
Preemption: Statewide ban controls

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: C.R.S. 33-6-109 - Wildlife - illegal possession

Summary

Colorado prohibits private possession of most native and exotic wildlife under Parks and Wildlife regulations. The statewide ban preempts local permission for restricted species across Colorado.

(4) It is unlawful for any person to have in his possession in Colorado any nonnative or exotic wildlife except in accordance with the rules and regulations of the commission. Any person who violates this subsection (4) is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars nor more than one thousand dollars. In addition, such person shall be assessed ten suspension points per incident for possessing an animal on the prohibited species list and five suspension points per incident for possessing any other nonnative or exotic wildlife species.

Source: C.R.S. 33-6-109 - Wildlife - illegal possessionView official code

Full Breakdown

Under C.R.S. 33-6-109 and 2 CCR 406-11 (Chapter W-11), Colorado Parks and Wildlife prohibits possession of most live wildlife including big cats, primates, bears, wolves, venomous reptiles, and most native species without specific licenses. Permitted exotic pets are limited to certain reptiles, ferrets, sugar gliders, and approved unregulated species. Wildlife rehabilitators, zoos, and educational facilities require Commercial Wildlife Park licenses. Local governments cannot authorize possession of state-prohibited species; the statewide ban overrides any permissive local rule.

Violations & Penalties

Illegal possession of nonnative or exotic wildlife is a misdemeanor fined $250 to $1,000 plus five to ten license suspension points, and animals are typically seized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a big cat or primate as a pet in Colorado?

No. Colorado prohibits private possession of big cats, primates, bears, wolves, and most exotic mammals statewide regardless of local rules. Only licensed facilities may possess them.

What exotic pets are legal in Colorado?

Legal exotic pets include ferrets, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, most non-venomous reptiles, and unrestricted invertebrates. CPW publishes the unregulated species list under W-11.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.