Wyoming Statewide Rule

Wyoming Exotic Pet and Wildlife Possession Rules

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Wyoming (2026)

Key Facts

Permit authority: Game and Fish Department
Statute: Title 23, Chapter 10
Native wildlife: Generally prohibited
Permit types: Educational, scientific
Local override: Cannot expand

Last verified: September 5, 2026Source: Wyoming Legislature

Summary

Wyoming Game and Fish Commission regulates possession of live wildlife statewide. Many native and exotic species require permits, and several are prohibited as personal pets, with state law preempting municipal allowances.

23-1-103. Ownership of wildlife; purpose of provisions. For the purpose of this act, all wildlife in Wyoming is the property of the state, including shed antlers or horns located on state or public lands. It is the purpose of this act and the policy of the state to provide an adequate and flexible system for control, propagation, management, protection and regulation of all Wyoming wildlife. There shall be no private ownership of live animals classified in this act as big or trophy game animals or of any wolf or wolf hybrid.

Source: Wyoming LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Wyoming Statutes Title 23 and Game and Fish Commission Chapter 10 regulations, possession, importation, and transportation of live wildlife generally requires a permit from the Department. The Commission designates which species can be possessed and under what conditions, including categories for educational, scientific, and commercial purposes. Native big game, trophy game, predators, and many nongame species cannot be kept as personal pets. Reptiles and certain exotic mammals may be regulated separately, and venomous reptiles or large carnivores typically require permits or are prohibited. Local governments may add restrictions but cannot authorize possession the Commission has prohibited.

Violations & Penalties

Unlawful possession of wildlife is a misdemeanor under Title 23. Penalties include fines, animal seizure, restitution values for protected species, and loss of permit privileges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep a native Wyoming animal as a pet?

Generally no. Wyoming law treats native wildlife as state property, and the Game and Fish Commission rarely permits personal possession of native species without specific qualifying purposes.

Do I need a permit for exotic reptiles?

Many reptiles require Game and Fish permits, and venomous species are typically restricted. Check Chapter 10 regulations before acquiring any non-domestic species.

Can my city allow exotic pets the state bans?

No. Game and Fish Commission jurisdiction over wildlife preempts local authorization. Cities can only add additional restrictions, not loosen state prohibitions.

Sources

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