No, owning a monkey in Hawaii is illegal under state law, with no exceptions for personal pets. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture enforces strict prohibitions under HRS §142-91, classifying non-human primates as “dangerous wild animals.” Violations may result in fines up to $10,000 or imprisonment, per 2023 amendments to the Hawaii Administrative Rules.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Hawaii
- Absolute Ban: HRS §142-91 prohibits the possession, importation, or breeding of non-human primates statewide, including species like capuchins or macaques.
- Enforcement by HDOA: The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) conducts inspections and seizes illegally held primates, as seen in 2022 cases involving confiscated macaques.
- Penalties: Violations trigger civil penalties up to $10,000 per animal, with criminal charges possible under HAR §4-71-6. No permits or grandfather clauses exist for pre-existing ownership.
Local jurisdictions, such as Honolulu County, further restrict exotic animal ownership via ordinances like Revised Ordinances of Honolulu §7-1.3, aligning with state policy. The 2026 Hawaii Wildlife Conservation Strategy reinforces these measures, prioritizing ecosystem protection over private exotic pet ownership. Exotic animal sanctuaries may house primates, but only with HDOA-approved permits for educational or conservation purposes.