Minnesota Statewide Rule
Minnesota Regulated Animals and Exotic Pet Ban
Key Facts
- Statute
- Minn. Stat. 346.155
- Effective
- January 1, 2005
- Insurance Required
- $250,000 minimum
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor first offense
- Breeding
- Prohibited
Summary
Minnesota Statute 346.155 prohibits private possession of regulated animals including big cats, bears, and non-human primates. The law preempts conflicting local rules and applies uniformly statewide, with grandfather provisions for animals owned before 2005.
Subd. 2.Possession of regulated animals. (a) Except as provided in this section, it is unlawful for a person to possess a regulated animal. (b) A person who possesses a regulated animal on January 1, 2005, has 90 days to come into compliance with regulations promulgated by the United States Department of Agriculture for regulated animals under the Animal Welfare Act, Public Law 89-544, and its subsequent amendments, and the regulations adopted under that act relating to facilities and operations, animal health and husbandry, and veterinary care for regulated animals. (c) Except as provided in paragraph (e), a person must not take possession of a regulated animal after January 1, 2005. (d) Except as provided in paragraph (e), a person must not allow regulated animals in their possession to breed after January 1, 2005.
Full Breakdown
Minnesota's Regulated Animals Act bans the acquisition or possession of bears, tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and all non-human primates. Owners possessing such animals before January 1, 2005 could keep them by registering with local animal control, posting signage, maintaining liability insurance of at least $250,000, and meeting confinement standards. Transfer or breeding of grandfathered animals is forbidden. USDA-licensed exhibitors, accredited zoos, research facilities, and licensed wildlife sanctuaries are exempt. The statute applies in every Minnesota city and county and supplements rather than replaces local exotic animal restrictions.
Violations & Penalties
Possessing an unregistered regulated animal is a misdemeanor; subsequent offenses are gross misdemeanors. Animals may be seized and the owner billed for confiscation costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a new tiger or monkey in Minnesota?
Are reptiles or large snakes covered?
Do I need to notify neighbors?
Sources
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