Exotic Pet Rules & Permits - Colorado Springs

Public Health and Welfare Colorado 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Colorado

Colorado Springs, Colorado owners keeping or considering exotic animals must follow city code, state rules where referenced, and local permitting where required. This guide summarizes how the City regulates exotic and potentially dangerous non-domestic pets, who enforces the rules, typical enforcement steps, and how to apply or report suspected violations. It is a practical primer for owners, landlords, and neighbors to check legality, obtain permits when available, and avoid common compliance problems.

Scope and Definitions

The City Code and the animal services program define which species are regulated as "exotic," "wild," or "dangerous" and set conditions for keeping them. For the controlling municipal language, consult the City Code, Title 6 - Animals.City Code - Title 6[1]

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by City Animal Services and Code Enforcement; penalties, seizure authority, and any permit regimes are set in the municipal code and enforcing rules. Where the ordinance text does not list numeric fines or fee schedules on the cited page, this guide notes that those amounts are not specified on the cited page and points to the enforcing office for current schedules.City Animal Services[2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; see enforcement office for current fine schedule.
  • Seizure and impoundment: code provides authority to seize animals that present risk or are kept in violation; specific disposition and boarding fees are managed by Animal Services.
  • Court actions and civil penalties: enforcement may pursue municipal infraction hearings or criminal citations where authorized by code.
  • Enforcer: City Animal Services and Code Enforcement handle complaints, inspections, and compliance; contact the department for inspections and appeals.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set by municipal procedure or court rule; specific appeal periods are not specified on the cited page.
If you keep an exotic animal, contact Animal Services before acquiring it to confirm legal status and any permit needs.

Applications & Forms

The municipal code or department pages identify any required permits, applications, and permit conditions; however, a specific named permit form for exotic animals is not published on the cited municipal page and is listed as not specified on the cited page. Contact Animal Services or Code Enforcement to request the applicable application, fee schedule, and submission method.Animal Services permits and contacts[2]

Some animals commonly termed "exotic" may be prohibited outright or need written authorization; do not assume sale listings equal legal ownership.

Common Violations

  • Keeping species listed as prohibited without authorization.
  • Failure to confine or secure an animal creating public safety risk.
  • Operating a breeding, boarding, or exhibition activity without required local permits or business licenses.

Action Steps for Owners

  • Check the municipal code definition and lists before acquiring any exotic animal.
  • Contact Animal Services or Code Enforcement to confirm whether a permit or variance is required.
  • If cited, ask for the written ordinance section and any case or citation number, and follow appeal instructions promptly.

FAQ

Which species are prohibited in Colorado Springs?
Allowed and prohibited species are defined in the municipal code and department rules; specific prohibited-species lists are located in Title 6 and department guidance. Consult the City Code and Animal Services for species lists.[1]
Do I need a permit to keep an exotic pet?
Some species or uses (exhibit, breeding, commercial boarding) may require permits or licenses; the municipal pages do not publish a single universal permit form for all exotics and direct you to Animal Services to obtain requirements.[2]
How do I report an illegal or dangerous exotic animal?
Report to City Animal Services or Code Enforcement using the department's complaint/report form or phone contact for immediate hazards.[2]

How-To

  1. Confirm the animal’s legal classification under City Code by reviewing Title 6 and contacting Animal Services.
  2. If a permit is required, request the applicable application and fee schedule from Animal Services and submit required documentation.
  3. Prepare enclosures and transport plans that meet safety and public-health standards; retain records and photos of compliance.
  4. If cited, follow the citation instructions, pay fines if required or timely file the specified appeal or hearing request.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado Springs regulates exotic animals through Title 6 and department rules; check code before acquiring animals.
  • Contact Animal Services or Code Enforcement early to confirm permit needs and avoid enforcement actions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City Code - Title 6 Animals (Municipal Code)
  2. [2] City of Colorado Springs Animal Services

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