Ohio has some of the most lenient exotic pet laws in the United States. As a result, many people are wondering what exotic pets are legal to own in Ohio. This article will provide an overview of the current laws and regulations regarding exotic pets in Ohio.

What Exotic Pets Are Legal in Ohio?

Dangerous Wild Animals

Ohio law defines dangerous wild animals as any animal that is native to or has been introduced to the wild in a foreign country and that is considered to be a threat to public health or safety or to property. This includes animals such as lions, tigers, bears, elephants, and rhinoceroses. It is illegal to possess, sell, or transport dangerous wild animals in Ohio without a permit from the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

Non-Dangerous Wild Animals

Non-dangerous wild animals are defined as any animal that is not considered to be a threat to public health or safety or to property. This includes animals such as monkeys, lemurs, sloths, and armadillos. It is legal to possess, sell, or transport non-dangerous wild animals in Ohio without a permit, but there are some restrictions. For example, it is illegal to possess a non-dangerous wild animal that is native to Ohio without a permit from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Other Exotic Pets

In addition to dangerous and non-dangerous wild animals, there are also a number of other exotic pets that are legal to own in Ohio. These include animals such as ferrets, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and pot-bellied pigs. There are no specific regulations regarding these animals, but it is important to check with your local government to make sure that they are allowed in your area.

Conclusion

Ohio has some of the most lenient exotic pet laws in the United States. As a result, there are a wide variety of exotic pets that are legal to own in the state. However, it is important to remember that there are still some restrictions on the possession, sale, and transport of exotic pets. It is important to check with your local government to make sure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.