DC Code § 8-1808(h) reads that: “Except as provided in this subsection, no person shall import into the District, possess, display, offer for sale, trade, barter, exchange, or adoption, or give as a household pet any living member of the animal kingdom including those born or raised in captivity, except the following: domestic dogs (excluding hybrids with wolves, coyotes, or jackals), domestic cats (excluding hybrids with ocelots or margays), domesticated rodents and rabbits, captive-bred species of common cage birds, nonpoisonous snakes, fish, and turtles, traditionally kept in the home for pleasure rather than for commercial purposes, and racing pigeons (when kept in compliance with permit requirements).”

Exceptions to this law apply for special events and educational purposes.

To apply to bring an otherwise illegal animal into the District of Columbia, contact (202) 535-2323 for more information.  There is no cost for a Special Event/Exotic Animal Permit.