New York Statewide Rule
New York Bans Wild Animals as Pets Statewide
Key Facts
- Statute
- ECL 11-0512
- Banned
- Big cats, bears, primates
- Penalty
- Up to $500 per animal
- Exemptions
- Licensed zoos, sanctuaries
Summary
Environmental Conservation Law section 11-0512 universally prohibits possessing wild animals such as big cats, bears, wolves, and venomous reptiles as pets across New York.
1. It shall be prohibited for any person to: a. knowingly possess, harbor, sell, barter, transfer, exchange or import any wild animal for use as a pet in New York state, except as provided in subdivision three of this section; or b. intentionally release or set at-large any wild animal, authorized by this section for use as a pet, from the location where the animal is permitted to be possessed or harbored.
Full Breakdown
ECL 11-0512 bars individuals from owning, harboring, or transporting designated wild animals including non-human primates, large cats, bears, crocodilians, and venomous snakes. Limited exemptions exist for licensed zoos, sanctuaries, and research facilities. Existing pre-2005 owners had to register with DEC. The ban is statewide, applies in every county and municipality, and supplements local exotic pet rules with a non-waivable floor.
Violations & Penalties
Possession of a prohibited wild animal is a violation punishable by civil penalties up to 500 dollars per animal, seizure of the animal, and criminal misdemeanor charges for repeat offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a monkey or tiger as a pet in New York?
What about reptiles and exotic birds?
Sources
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