Georgia Exotic and Wild Animal Possession Ban

Under O.C.G.A. 27-5-4 and Georgia Department of Natural Resources rules, it is unlawful to possess, sell, or transport non-native wildlife including primates, large cats, bears, wolves, alligators, venomous reptiles, and many other species without a wild animal license. Permits are issued only to qualifying entities such as zoos, research facilities, and licensed exhibitors, not pet owners. The state list is uniform statewide; local governments cannot authorize residents to keep banned species.

Possession of a prohibited wild animal is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 and animal seizure; repeat offenses can be enhanced.