No, owning a monkey in Oregon is prohibited under the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, which classify non-human primates as prohibited species. A 2024 legislative amendment to ORS 496.004 expanded restrictions, aligning with CDC and USDA guidelines to mitigate zoonotic disease risks. Local jurisdictions, such as Multnomah County, enforce additional permitting hurdles, though exceptions for licensed sanctuaries remain.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Oregon
- Prohibited Species Classification: ODFW lists all non-human primates (e.g., macaques, capuchins) as “prohibited wildlife” under OAR 635-005-0010, barring private ownership.
- Permit Exceptions: Only USDA-licensed facilities (e.g., research labs, accredited sanctuaries) may hold permits, subject to annual inspections by ODFW and the Oregon Health Authority.
- Local Enforcement: Counties like Washington and Clackamas require secondary permits for animal welfare compliance, though these do not override state bans.
Violations incur penalties under ORS 496.992, with fines up to $10,000 and confiscation. The 2026 ODFW rulemaking cycle may further tighten restrictions following CDC primate-related disease outbreaks. Prospective owners should consult ODFW’s Wildlife Division for updates.