Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Does any one know where i can get info on the laws of keeping hots or any reptilian in NC?

-Benjamin L.

What county do you live in?

The state laws aren't bad, but some of the counties are pretty oppressive. As far as the state goes, you've got to have them in locked cages, that are labeled with both scientific and common names, as well as a written bite protocol which includes emergency contact information, local animal control office, the name and location of suitable antivenom, first aid procedures, and treatment guidelines, as well as an escape recovery plan must be within sight of permanent housing, and a copy must accompany the transport of any venomous reptile. If it escapes you've got to notify local law enforcement immediately. Same things go for the Big Constrictors and Crocodilians (other than American Alligators). Failure to comply with any parts of the state law is considered a Class 2 Misdemeanor.

That being said, I KNOW that in Mecklenburg county, you can't own ANY crocodilians (because their Animal Control calls us several times a year to assist with rehoming confiscations) And in Guilford County, you've got to have a permit to own anything exotic...but, it's a free permit, and there are no penalties for NOT having the permit...they just make you get the permit...sort of pointless if you ask me.

This supports what wlcmmtt said but click the link for the offical document; Article 55.

http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/pdf/ByArticle/Chapter_14/Article_55.pdf

This is only guidelines for the state as a whole, you need to also check with county and city/town regulations.

I don't think the Article 55 is too much to ask of us hot herp keepers.