South Carolina Statewide Rule
South Carolina Large Wild and Exotic Animal Ban
Key Facts
- Statute
- SC Code § 47-2-10 et seq.
- Effective date
- January 1, 2018
- Banned species
- Big cats, non-native bears, apes
- Grandfather clause
- Registered before Jan. 2018
- Exemptions
- Accredited zoos, sanctuaries
Summary
South Carolina bans private possession of large wild cats, non-native bears, and great apes under the 2017 Large Wild Cats, Non-native Bears and Great Apes Act (Title 47, Chapter 2). Owners registered before January 2018 may keep existing animals.
Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, it is unlawful for a person to import into, possess, keep, purchase, have custody or control of, breed, or sell within this State, by any means, a large wild cat, non-native bear, or great ape, including transactions conducted via the Internet.
Full Breakdown
Enacted as 2017 Act No. 86 and codified at S.C. Code Sections 47-2-10 through 47-2-60, the law makes it unlawful to import, possess, breed, or sell lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cougars, cheetahs, and other large wild cats, non-native bears, and great apes such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. Owners who possessed such animals before January 1, 2018 could keep them only by registering with the local animal-control authority. Accredited zoos, sanctuaries, research institutions, and licensed exhibitors are exempt. The statute also lets local governments adopt their own ordinances regulating these animals. Reptiles and venomous snakes are handled separately under DNR rules.
Violations & Penalties
A first offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to $1,000 or 30 days in jail; a second offense carries up to $5,000 or 90 days. Animals may be confiscated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a tiger or lion in South Carolina?
Are monkeys and reptiles covered by the ban?
Sources
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