Pets That Are Illegal to Own in Nevada

Illegal Pets To Own In Nevada

While owning a unique animal can seem like a tempting idea for some people, there are many things to consider before spending your money on an exotic pet. When you bring a pet into your home, you assume responsibility for it and could incur liability for any harm that animal causes. 

Mainly, you should determine whether it’s even legal to own that species as a pet in your state. In many cases, the answer would be no. However, Nevada’s pet ownership laws are a little more relaxed than those of other states.

So, what exotic pets can you own in Nevada?

Here are some of the pets that are legal to own in Nevada:

• Tigers
• Ferrets
• Gerbils
• Monkeys
• Lions
• Hedgehogs
• Parrots
• Elephants
• Camels
• Alpaca
• Ostrich
• Toucans
• Bison
• Zebra
• Domesticated ducks and geese

Remember, even though the State of Nevada may say these animals are legal to own, local laws may be more strict. The city of Las Vegas, Henderson, and Clark County may have more restrictive animal ownership laws than the State of Nevada.

In addition, even if the law allows private ownership of these animals, they are not to be released into the wild unless authorized by state officials, according to Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 503.

Animal cruelty laws also apply in the State of Nevada. Whether an animal is exotic or a common household pet, animal cruelty can be enforced. Torture, overdriving exploitation, and neglect are all subject to criminal penalties for offenders.

The Nevada animal cruelty laws are found in Nevada Revised Statutes Chapter 574.

What Are The Animal And Pet Ownership Laws In Nevada?

The animal and pet ownership laws in Nevada come from Nevada Administrative Code Chapter 503. NAC 503.110 lists the animals that are illegal, while NAC 503.140 lists the animals that may be lawfully possessed without a license. However, there may be more restrictive local laws that apply to animal and pet ownership in Nevada.

The complete lists of animals that are illegal to own in Nevada include:

Illegal Fish

• Lampreys
• Freshwater stingray
• Freshwater shark
• Bowfin
• Gars
• Herring and shad, except threadfin and gizzard
• European whitefish
• Mexican banded tetra
• Piranhas
• South American parasitic catfish
• White perch
• Freshwater drum
• Grass carp (except certified triploids with a permit)
• Pike topminnow
• Snakehead
• Walking catfish
• Tigerfish
• Sticklebacks
• Tilapia
• Nile perch
• Goldeye
• Carp (various species)
• Rudd
• Northern Pike
• Asian swamp eel

Illegal Reptiles

• Alligators
• Crocodiles
• Gharial
• Bird snake
• Boomslang
• Keelbacks
• Burrowing asps
• Coral snakes, cobras, kraits, mambas, Australian elapids
• Pit vipers and true vipers, except Indigenous species
• Snapping turtles

Illegal Amphibians

• Clawed frogs
• Giant or marine toads

Illegal Mammals

• Wild dogs or dhole
• Raccoon dog
• Mongooses
• Meerkats
• Wild European rabbit
• Multimammate rat or mouse
• Bats
• Nutria
• Coyote
• Foxes
• Raccoon
• Skunk
• Wild pigs and hogs
• Axis deer
• Red deer elk and wapiti
• Rusa, sambar, sika, roe, and white-tailed deer
• Moose
• Reedbucks
• Oryx and gemsbok
• Addax
• Blesbok, topi and bontebok
• Hartebeests
• Wildebeest and gnus
• Chamois
• Tahr
• Ibex, wild goats, tur, and markhor
• Barbary sheep
• Mouflon sheep, urial, bighorn, and argali

Illegal Birds

• Pink starling or rosy pastor
• Red-billed dioch
• Red-whiskered bulbul

Illegal Crustaceans

• Asiatic mitten crab
• Crayfish

Illegal Mollusks

• African giant snail
• Zebra and quagga mussels
• New Zealand mud snail

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Legal To Own A Raccoon In Nevada?

No, it is not legal to own a raccoon in Nevada. Nevada Administrative Code 503.110 places raccoons on the list of animals people cannot own or transport in the State of Nevada. Possessing a raccoon as a pet may be punished as a misdemeanor in Nevada.

Are Pet Monkeys Legal In Nevada?

Yes, pet monkeys are legal in Nevada. In fact, Nevada Administrative Code 503.140 allows Nevada residents to own pet monkeys without a permit. Always be sure to check for city or county laws that may be more restrictive or require a permit.

Can I Own A Sloth In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a sloth in Nevada, as they are not on the list of banned animals.

Can You Own A Giraffe In Nevada?

Yes, you may be able to own a giraffe in Nevada. No law bans giraffes statewide in Nevada. However, giraffes are also not on the statewide list of animals that may be owned without a permit. Municipalities may require a permit before someone can lawfully own a giraffe, or they may prohibit ownership.

Can You Own A Kangaroo In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a kangaroo in Nevada. Nevada Administrative Code 503.110 lists the animals that are illegal to own in Nevada, and kangaroos are not on the list. As long as they are not banned locally and you comply with any permitting process, you can own a kangaroo in Nevada.

Is It Legal To Own A Skunk In Nevada?

No, it is not legal to own a skunk in Nevada. Skunks are illegal to possess or transport under Nevada Administrative Code 503.110. A person who possesses a skunk in Nevada may be subject to misdemeanor penalties.

Can I Own A Tiger In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a tiger in Nevada. Tigers are not prohibited by the State of Nevada law. However, be sure to check with county and city laws that may regulate tigers, including prohibition or permitting requirements. Also, remember that owning a pet does not authorize the owner to release the animal into society. The pet must be kept secure at all times.

Are Piranhas Legal In Nevada?

No, piranhas are not legal in Nevada. Nevada Administrative Code 503.110 prohibits private ownership of piranhas. Because they are banned on a statewide level, it is not legal to own piranhas in the state. Violators may be subject to penalties for owning a prohibited animal.

Can I Own Bats In Nevada? 

No, you cannot keep bats as pets in Nevada. They are protected animals and can create potential health risks, particularly rabies. Bats can also carry several other diseases, some of which can be communicated to humans. 

There are some exceptions where bats may be kept for educational purposes. However, obtaining the proper permitting can be both costly and tedious. Even if you obtain the correct permitting, you can still face severe liability if one of your bats escapes and bites someone. 

Can I Own Desert Tortoises?

No, you cannot own desert tortoises. They are classified as “threatened,” according to the National Park Service (NPS). Desert tortoises are also protected under state law. 

Attempting to catch a desert tortoise would not only place added strain on the population, but it would also be illegal. You can face fines or even criminal charges for tampering with or otherwise bothering an animal on the “threatened” list. 

Can I Own Wolves In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a wolf in Nevada. However, many county and city jurisdictions have additional restrictions on owning wild animals, including wolves. 

For example, the city of Las Vegas requires you to obtain a non-exhibited wild animal permit to own a variety of animals, including wolves. The law also applies to wolf hybrids, so keep that in mind if you are exploring exotic dogs that may be classified as “hybrids.” 

Can I Have A Pet Fox In Nevada?

It depends. Native species like the red fox generally require special permits. Non-native species like fennec foxes might be allowed with fewer restrictions, at least at the state level. However, foxes are regulated at the local level by many major cities, including Las Vegas. Much like wolves, foxes require a non-exhibited wild animal permit. 

Can I Own A Duck In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a duck in Nevada. Ducks are commonly kept as pets or for small-scale farming and are legal to own in most areas. Make sure you provide your ducks with a proper environment. They need access to plenty of clean water and the appropriate food. Ducks can be social animals, so you may want more than one.

Most restrictions on duck ownership come at the municipal or neighborhood level. For example, if you live in a neighborhood governed by a homeowner’s association, you may be prohibited from owning waterfowl. 

Can I Own A Pig In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a pig in Nevada. Just make sure to check local zoning laws to find out whether there are any restrictions in your area. Miniature pigs are popular pets. They are more manageable and may be easier to care for than larger breeds. 

Can You Own An Otter In Nevada?

Not usually. Otters are considered exotic wildlife, and you would need special permits to own one. 

Otters have particular needs that can be difficult to meet in a household setting. You must provide them with ample space for swimming and social interaction, as well as a specific diet. Even if you can obtain a permit, they are not typically recommended as pets. 

Can You Own A Sugar Glider In Nevada?

Yes, sugar gliders are legal to own in Nevada. These small marsupials are popular pets due to their unique gliding abilities and friendly demeanor. 

Make sure you research proper care and feeding procedures to provide a nurturing and safe environment for your new pet. With the right care, they can be fun companions for years to come. 

Are Big Cats Legal In Nevada?

Nevada has relatively lax laws concerning big cat ownership, especially compared to most other states. You can own lions and tigers in the Silver State. You will need a wild animal permit if you live in a city like Las Vegas. However, these permits are relatively easy to obtain, provided you meet the city’s safety standards. 

The bigger concern is whether you can provide adequate care for the animal while also keeping yourself and others safe. If you’ve seen any of the recent tiger documentaries, you know how dangerous these powerful animals can be. Just because you can legally own a big cat in Nevada doesn’t mean you should make the decision lightly. 

Is Lobster Illegal In Nevada?

You cannot buy live lobster in a Nevada restaurant. However, owning a lobster as a pet is not explicitly prohibited. If you are interested in having a lobster as a pet, it’s a good idea to double-check any local wildlife regulations to be certain you are allowed to do so. 

Can You Own A Serval In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a serval in Nevada. The state’s lawmakers seem to be pretty open about exotic cat ownership in general. Servals are known for their agility and distinctive appearance. Owning one is a big responsibility.

If you’re considering a serval, make sure to research their needs and ensure you can provide a suitable home. You’ll also need a wild animal permit in Las Vegas and several other jurisdictions. 

Are Axolotls Legal In Nevada?

Yes, axolotls are legal to own in Nevada. The unique amphibians are known for their regenerative abilities. They are low-maintenance, but you will need a high-quality aquarium that can maintain a stable environment to keep them healthy. 

Can You Own A Prairie Dog In Nevada?

Prairie dogs are legal to own in Nevada. Like many other wild animals, they require a special permit if you live in Las Vegas. These social animals require plenty of space to dig and burrow. You’ll need to give them lots of attention and care for them to thrive. While they can be friendly, owning them can also be a lot of work. 

Can You Own A Capybara In Nevada?

Capybaras are legal to own in Nevada with the right permits. According to the World Wildlife Fund, they are the largest rodent in the world. They need a lot of space and access to water for swimming. You should consider keeping them with other capybaras, as they are very social. Isolation can be bad for their well-being and quality of life. 

Are Minks Legal In Nevada?

Minks are legal to own in Nevada, but you’ll need a permit if you live in Las Vegas. These small, energetic animals can be challenging to care for due to their natural behaviors. Minks need a lot of stimulation, space, and access to water, as they are known for their agility and curiosity. 

Are Coyotes Legal In Nevada?

No, you cannot own coyotes in Nevada. These wild animals are protected under state law, and their ownership is strictly regulated to protect them and the public. Coyotes are best left in their natural habitats. 

Are Lynx Legal In Nevada?

Yes, you can own a lynx in Nevada. However, you will need permits, especially if you live in a city like Las Vegas. Keeping a lynx healthy while preventing harm to the general public requires a lot of work. 

Are Opossums Legal In Nevada? 

Opossums are legal to own as pets in Nevada. These nocturnal marsupials have a gentle demeanor, making them an increasingly popular option as an exotic pet. While they aren’t high maintenance, opossums do have specific dietary needs you should be aware of. 

Have You Been Hurt By Illegal Pets In Nevada?

Owning exotic pets can be fun and exciting. However, it’s important to follow state and local laws to keep yourself and others safe. Owning illegal pets in Nevada can result in serious injuries and, potentially, criminal repercussions. As a resident of Nevada, it’s important to do your part to protect the state’s ecosystem by familiarizing yourself with which pets you can and cannot own. 

You should also hold others accountable for owning illegal pets in Nevada, especially if the exotic animals caused you or your loved ones harm.