Colorado Exotic Animal Laws

The State of Colorado has many codes or laws regulating the wildlife population, both native and non-native or exotic. These codes or laws, Colorado Code Regulation 2 CCR 406-0 through Colorado Code Regulation 2 CCR 406-11, clearly explain how or even if it is legal in Colorado to possess wildlife, either native or exotic. These laws or codes also clearly explain the consequences of possessing, importing, selling, trading, bartering or purchasing these animals illegally.

Since we are interested in the Colorado Code Regulations that pertain to non-native or exotic animals we will move on to 2 CCR 406-8, the code or law that covers the exotic animals in Colorado. This set of codes or laws is responsible for the restriction or prohibition of the possession and importation of exotic wildlife and the rules set forth for allowing permits for said wildlife. Simply stated, in Colorado, it is illegal for anyone to possess most exotic animals for private purposes. But, this code does make it clear that individuals can possess up to 6 native reptiles as well as unregulated wildlife and that these animals can not be bartered, sold or traded. People who possess a Scientific Collection Permit, an aquaculture permit or a falconry/hawk license may also possess animals that pertain to their particular permit or license. Persons who are licensed wildlife rehabilitators may also possess exotic animals, but usually for only a certain amount of time and Commercial Operations may be issued a permit.