Exotic Pets

It is illegal to harbor and/or own an exotic or dangerous animal. An exotic animal is defined as:

• Any large cat from the genus Panthera including: lion, P. leo; tiger, P. tigris; jaguar, P. onca; leopard, P. pardus; and snow leopard, Uncia uncia; as well as the puma (cougar or mountain lion), Puma concolor; clouded leopard, Neofelis nebulosa; and cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus
• Any monkey, ape, gorilla, hybrid thereof, or other non-human primate
• Any wolf or canine except the species Canis familaris (domestic dog)
• Any bear
• Any venomous or poisonous reptile
• Any reptile of the order Crocodilia (crocodiles, alligators and caimans), or any snake of the family Pythonidae or Boinae capable of obtaining eight feet or more in length

As of 2018, Multnomah County also prohibits traveling animal displays that include wild or exotic animals for live public entertainment or amusement. More about the ordinance amendment.

Please see the Multnomah County ordinances

for additional information.

Steps for Solving

1. Call (503) 988-7387 during regular call center hours and file a report.
2. An animal services officer will investigate your complaint. If the exotic animal or reptile is banned in the county, the animal will be removed and a Notice of Infraction may be issued.