It is strictly regulated.
Owning a monkey in Japan is permitted only under stringent conditions, primarily governed by the Act on Welfare and Management of Animals (2019) and local ordinances. Exotic pet ownership requires permits from municipal governments, veterinary inspections, and adherence to species-specific welfare standards. The 2026 revision of the Act expands restrictions, banning high-risk species like macaques without special exemptions. Violations risk fines up to ¥1 million or imprisonment, with enforcement tightening under Tokyo Metropolitan Government’s 2025 wildlife protection guidelines.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Japan
- Permit Requirements: Owners must obtain a “special animal possession license” from local authorities, demonstrating adequate housing, veterinary care plans, and species suitability under the 2019 Act. Applications undergo scrutiny by municipal animal welfare divisions, with processing times exceeding 6 months in urban areas like Osaka.
- Species Restrictions: The 2026 amendments prohibit ownership of primates classified as “high-risk” (e.g., rhesus macaques, capuchins) without proof of conservation or research purposes. Permitted species (e.g., marmosets) require microchipping and annual health certifications from licensed veterinarians.
- Local Ordinances: Prefectures like Hokkaido and Kyoto impose additional bans or stricter zoning laws. Tokyo’s 2025 guidelines mandate 24/7 surveillance systems for primate enclosures and mandatory liability insurance covering potential public harm.