Restricted Snake Possession Permit

This permit is for owners that do not intend to breed, sell, or trade snakes.

Permit application fees: $150

Liability insurance or surety bond requirements (for venomous snakes only)

• $100,000 (1-5 restricted snakes)
• $250,000 (6-15 restricted snakes)
• $500,000 (16 or more restricted snakes)
• Note:Financial responsibility requirement only applies to species of the following families: Atractaspididae; Elapidae; Viperidae. Boomslang snakes; Twig snakes

Additional requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must comply with the requirements regarding the care and housing of those snakes that are established in standards adopted by the Zoological Association of America
• Must sign an affidavit attesting that members of the public will not be permitted to be in physical contact with any restricted snakes possessed
• Has not been convicted of or plead guilty to a felony drug abuse offense, an offense of violence that is a felony, a violation of animal cruelty statutes, or of failing to report the escape of a non-indigenous animal (background check required)
• For vipers and venomous snakes, must be able to demonstrate at least two years of experience in the care of the species of snake(s) that are possessed or pass a written examination
• Must establish and submit a plan of action to be undertaken if a restricted snake escapes
• Must provide a written statement from a veterinarian stating that the veterinarian is willing to provide veterinary care to the snake(s) when needed