Is Exotic Pet Ownership Legal in Colorado? (2026)

RESTRICTED
Confidence: High

Partially — Exotic Pet Ownership is legal with restrictions in Colorado as of 2026.

Key Restriction
Permits required for possession of certain exotic animals; some species banned
Penalty
Varies, from misdemeanors with fines to felonies for endangered species, with significant financial penalties.
Last Updated
2026-03-25

Law changed in 2025: The 'Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act' (PACFA) was updated following a 2025 sunset review (HB26-1183). Additionally, the 'Traveling Animal Protection Act' was amended in 2026 by HB 1133.

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Quick Answer

Colorado regulates exotic pet ownership under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 33. Certain species require permits, and some are prohibited. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department administers these regulations.

What the Law Says

Colorado Revised Statutes Title 33, regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, prohibits keeping any state-regulated wildlife as pets and restricts the possession of many other exotic species. The 'Traveling Animal Protection Act' also limits the use of certain animals in entertainment.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Category Details
Ownership Rules Permits required for possession of certain exotic animals; some species banned.
Permit Requirements Sale regulated; permits required for restricted species.
Penalties Fines and confiscation for violations (C.R.S. § 33-6-107).
Age Restriction None
Pending Legislation None known
Recent Changes

The 'Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act' (PACFA) was updated following a 2025 sunset review (HB26-1183). Additionally, the 'Traveling Animal Protection Act' was amended in 2026 by HB 1133.

Enforcement Reality

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) enforces regulations, focusing on the prohibition of possessing native wildlife and specific exotic species. The 'Traveling Animal Protection Act' also restricts the use of certain animals in entertainment.

Charge Level
Varies, from misdemeanors with fines to felonies for endangered species, with significant financial penalties.
Enforcement Likelihood
Moderate - Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) enforces regulations, with a strong focus on prohibiting the possession of native wildlife.
Common Triggers
Attempting to keep native Colorado wildlife as pets, or possessing species on the state's prohibited list.
Common Mistakes

A common error is attempting to keep native Colorado animals as pets, which is illegal. Another is being unaware of the specific list of prohibited non-native species, which includes many primates and certain reptiles.

Local Exceptions

None identified. State law applies uniformly across Colorado. Local ordinances may still vary — check with your city or county government for any additional rules.

Bottom Line

Exotic Pet Ownership is legal with restrictions in Colorado. This product is permitted, but specific conditions apply. Violating those conditions can result in fines or criminal charges. Read the rules carefully and consult an attorney if unsure.

Colorado vs. the Rest of the US

Across the US, owning exotic pets is fully legal in 0 states, restricted in 48, and illegal in 2. Colorado falls in the RESTRICTED category.

View the full 50-state map →

Neighboring States

Laws change at state lines. Here is how bordering states compare on Exotic Pet Ownership:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to own Exotic Pet Ownership in Colorado?
Partially — Exotic Pet Ownership is legal with restrictions in Colorado as of 2026. Colorado regulates exotic pet ownership under Colorado Revised Statutes Title 33. Certain species require permits, and some are prohibited. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife department administers these regulations.
What are the restrictions on owning exotic pets in Colorado?
Permits required for possession of certain exotic animals; some species banned.. Sale regulated; permits required for restricted species.
What mistakes do people make with owning exotic pets in Colorado?
A common error is attempting to keep native Colorado animals as pets, which is illegal. Another is being unaware of the specific list of prohibited non-native species, which includes many primates and certain reptiles.
Does the law on owning exotic pets change at the Colorado border?
Yes. Exotic Pet Ownership is illegal in neighboring Arizona. Laws change at state lines — check each state individually before traveling.

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EH
Ethan Harper Independent Legal Researcher

Reviewed by cross-referencing the cited state statute against current legislative databases and regulatory publications.

Last reviewed: 2026-03-25 Method: Statute cross-reference

Sources & Verification

1.
Primary Citation
2.
Statute Summary
Colorado Revised Statutes Title 33, regulated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, prohibits keeping any state-regulated wildlife as pets and restricts the possession of many other exotic species. The 'Tra…
Verified: 2026-03-25 Reviewed by: Ethan Harper Method: Statute cross-reference Confidence: High

This page was reviewed by Ethan Harper by comparing the legal status against the cited state statute. AllowedHere is an informational resource and does not provide legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

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