North Dakota Statewide Rule

North Dakota Nontraditional Livestock and Exotic Animal Rules

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across North Dakota (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

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: North Dakota Legislative Branch

Summary

North Dakota regulates exotic and nontraditional livestock under NDCC 36-01-08.2, requiring state licensing for Category 2 and 3 animals including big cats, bears, and primates. The Board of Animal Health enforces these rules statewide, preempting weaker local laws.

36-01-08.4. Ownership of skunks and raccoons prohibited - Exception - Rules on primates, wolves, and wolf hybrids. A person may not keep a skunk or raccoon in captivity. This section does not apply to a zoo licensed by the animal care program of the animal and plant health inspection service of the United States department of agriculture. The state veterinarian shall confiscate and dispose of any animal kept in violation of this section. The board shall adopt rules governing the keeping of a primate, wolf, or wolf hybrid in captivity and to implement this section. As used in this section, "primate" does not include a human being; "wolf" means any animal of the species canis lupus; and "wolf hybrid" means any animal that is any part wolf.

Source: North Dakota Legislative BranchView official code

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Sources

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