Possession of exotic animals is prohibited in Oregon with the following exceptions:
- The owner is licensed through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
- The owner has a valid Oregon exotic animal permit obtained prior to 2010. No new permits may be issued.
Exotic animals are defined in Oregon as:
- Non-human primates
- Bears, except for the American Black Bear
- Non-indigenous canines which are not domestic or domestic crosses
- Non-indigenous felines which are not domestic or domestic crosses
- Crocodilians
National regulation
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates exotic animal dealers, exhibitors, transporters, and researchers.
This work is carried out by USDA-APHIS. Possession of a USDA breeder or exhibitor license exempts the holder from ODA permit requirements.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) does not issue exotic animal permits.
ODA only regulates facilities that obtained exotic animals and permits prior to 2010.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) regulates indigenous wildlife and non-native wildlife species.
Local regulation
Local city and/or county ordinances may apply and should be investigated prior to acquiring an exotic animal.
Exemptions
Oregon law (ORS 609.345) allows for certain exemptions to permit requirements such as law enforcement agencies, educational facilities, research facilities, permitted wildlife rehabilitation centers, and disabled persons with service monkeys.
A certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI), import permit, and other species-specific tests will be required for those exotic animals imported into the state destined for permitted facilities or under an exemption.