Are exotic animals generally legal to own in Nevada?

Along with Alabama and North Carolina, Nevada is one of three states that does not directly control the private ownership of exotic pets but may regulate some aspect of ownership. However, cities and counties in Nevada may have more restrictive regulations.

Nevada state law limits public contact with privately owned wildlife, including exotic animals. The administrative code lists many fish, reptiles, mammals and other wildlife that are illegal to own. Animals not on the list include the leopard, tiger, wolf, elephant, bison and Komodo dragon.

Many of Nevada’s cities and counties have more restrictive regulations on wildlife ownership. For example, the state's two most populous counties, Clark and Washoe, have a comprehensive application and inspection process for privately owned exotic animals.

Thirty-three states have comprehensive or partial bans on exotic animal ownership.