Can I keep a tiger or bear as a pet in North Dakota?

Only with a Category 3 license from the Board of Animal Health, requiring secure caging, insurance, and inspection. Most private owners cannot meet requirements.

Are smaller exotics like sugar gliders regulated?

Sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and ferrets are generally legal as Category 1 pets without state licensing, though local rules may differ.

North Dakota Exotic Pets (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: NDCC 36-01-08.2
Banned Without License: Big cats, bears, primates
Enforcement: Board of Animal Health
Penalty: Class A misdemeanor
Exemption: USDA-licensed facilities

Source: North Dakota Legislative Branch

Full Breakdown

NDCC 36-01-08.2 classifies nontraditional livestock into three categories. Category 1 includes domesticated animals like alpacas. Category 2 covers exotic species like elk and fallow deer requiring licensure. Category 3 includes inherently dangerous species including bears, big cats (lions, tigers, leopards), wolves, and nonhuman primates, which require a Board of Animal Health license, secure facilities, and liability insurance. The state Board of Animal Health enforces these rules through inspections. Federal USDA-licensed exhibitors and accredited zoos are exempt. Local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions but cannot weaken these state minimums.

Violations & Penalties

Possessing Category 3 animals without a license is a class A misdemeanor with fines up to $3,000, jail up to 360 days, and animal seizure.

North Dakota Nontraditional Livestock and Exotic Animal Rules

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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