No, owning a monkey in Nebraska is prohibited under the Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s (NDA) exotic animal regulations, which classify non-human primates as inherently dangerous. Violations may result in confiscation or penalties under the NDA’s 2024-2026 enforcement updates.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Nebraska
- Prohibited Species: The NDA’s Exotic Animal List (2024) explicitly bans ownership of all non-human primates, including capuchins, macaques, and marmosets, without exception.
- Permit Denial: Even with a wildlife rehabilitation permit, the NDA’s Wildlife Code (Chapter 004) denies applications for primate ownership due to zoonotic disease risks and public safety concerns.
- Enforcement Actions: Local health departments and law enforcement collaborate with the NDA to inspect suspected violations, with 2026 budget allocations increasing for compliance checks.
Nebraska’s stance aligns with CDC guidelines, which discourage primate ownership due to salmonella, tuberculosis, and herpes B virus transmission risks. Municipalities like Omaha and Lincoln further restrict exotic pets via local ordinances, reinforcing statewide prohibitions. Exceptions exist only for accredited zoos or research facilities under USDA permits.