Colorado Exotic Pets Law: Statewide Animal Ordinances Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: C.R.S. 33-6-109
Regulation: 2 CCR 406-8 Ch. W-11
Regulator: CO Parks and Wildlife
Preemption: Statewide ban controls

Source: C.R.S. 33-6-109 - Wildlife - illegal possession

Full Breakdown

Under C.R.S. 33-6-109 and 2 CCR 406-8 (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 species. Wildlife rehabilitators, zoos, and educational facilities require Commercial Wildlife Park licenses. Local governments cannot authorize possession of state-prohibited species; the state ban overrides any permissive local rule.

Violations & Penalties

Illegal wildlife possession is a misdemeanor with fines $100-$100,000 depending on species; animals are typically seized and euthanized or relocated.

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.

Colorado Restricted Exotic Wildlife Possession Statewide

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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