Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Does anyone know who I should contact in my city to get a copy of the local ordinances governing pet ownership in the city? I'm guessing the City Clerk?

Thanks,
- Mark

The city clerk would be a good place to start. I'm not sure under what department pet permits fall, but there should be a building inspection/permits department and/or a code enforcement planning/zoning department. Either of these might be able to help. You might be able to just pick up the phone book and take a look at the city departments and go from there. Good luck.

RP

I go to the florida fish and wildlife website www.state.fl.us/gfc/. Try to find your states website.

SNAKESTRIKE is right on -- check with your state game and fish division as well as your local government. In Georgia, the state Department of Natural Resources Special Permits division is who you want to talk to.

RP

I'm eventually going to go to the Department of Fish and Wildlife here in Massachusetts - but's that not until I go for my STATE permit.

For now I'm specifically inquiring as to the legality of owning herps in my CITY. You see, for about thirty years now it has been illegal (a COMPLETE ban) to own any reptiles in the city I live in. Until now - I believe. I had just found out yesterday that the ordinance prohibiting reptile ownership here has been overturned. Now I want proof, as I am very excited, yet very suspicious. Not to mention - when I go for my permit from the state I'm going to need to at least let the state know that it is legal to keep my pets in the city I live in.

I'm trying City Hall right now.

Let's hope all goes well.

Thanks,
- Mark

When you get a permit from the state of florida you are really getting it from Department of Fish and Wildlife. In Florida they are the agency that enforce any laws that deal with animals. It could be different where you live because I know that Florida likes to do everything the hard way. GOOD LUCK..

Then the city clerk or code enforcement/permits are the places to go. If you have an approachable city manager, he/she could be a big help as well (don't know why I didn't think of that earlier!).

RP