No, owning a monkey in New York is illegal under state and local laws, with exceptions only for licensed wildlife rehabilitators or research facilities. The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) enforces strict prohibitions under ECL §11-0503, and NYC’s Health Code further bans exotic pets. Violations risk fines up to $2,500 and confiscation.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in New York
- DEC Permit Requirement: The NYS Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) §11-0503 prohibits private ownership of non-native primates without a DEC-issued permit, which is nearly impossible for individuals to obtain.
- NYC Health Code Ban: NYC’s Health Code §161.01 explicitly lists primates as prohibited pets, aligning with the city’s broader exotic animal restrictions.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: Pending DEC rule revisions in 2026 may tighten exemptions for sanctuaries, but private ownership remains unlawful under current standards.
Additional layers include federal USDA regulations for any permitted facilities and local zoning laws that may impose further barriers. Non-compliance triggers enforcement by DEC, NYC Animal Services, or the USDA, depending on the violation.