Utah Controlled Species and Exotic Animal Permit Rules

Utah Administrative Code R657-3 establishes the Collection, Importation, Transportation, and Possession of Animals rule. The Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) prohibits private possession of dangerous wildlife including big cats, bears, wolves, and most primates. Controlled species require a Certificate of Registration. Utah Code 23A-5-301 (formerly Title 23) provides DWR authority over wildlife. Local governments cannot authorize possession of state-prohibited species. Domestic ferrets are legal; venomous reptiles and most native wildlife are prohibited without specialized permits.

Possession of prohibited wildlife is a class B misdemeanor; violations may also result in animal seizure, civil penalties, and habitat restoration costs.