No, owning a monkey in Chile is illegal under the Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Act (Ley 20.960) and the Environmental Framework Law (Ley 19.300), which prohibit private possession of native or exotic wildlife without permits. The Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG) enforces these restrictions, and violations may result in fines up to 10,000 UTM (~$800,000 CLP) or imprisonment. Exemptions for scientific or educational purposes require prior approval, but pet ownership remains prohibited.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Chile
- Wildlife Protection: Native species (e.g., Callithrix oedipus) are strictly protected under SAG’s endangered species list, banning private ownership.
- Exotic Species Permits: Importing non-native monkeys (e.g., capuchins) requires a SAG-issued Certificado de Tenencia and proof of legal acquisition, rarely granted for pets.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: New amendments to Ley 20.960 will tighten penalties for illegal wildlife trafficking, including stricter inspections at borders and urban centers.
Violations detected through citizen reports or SAG audits trigger immediate confiscation and legal proceedings. The only legal pathways involve accredited zoos, research institutions, or wildlife rehabilitation centers with SAG oversight.