Pet Monkey Legal States

Before considering monkey as pet, it is necessary to understand ongoing compliance obligations. Monkeys are not domesticated animals. Primate ownership represents a decades-long commitment, since their life expectancy is between 20 and 40 years. This involves social restrictions and, mainly, substantial financial commitments that reflect not only basic care requirements but also the specialized nature of primate husbandry and the limited availability of appropriate resources and expertise.

Current US federal regulations do not prohibit monkey ownership. It is up to individual states to establish their own rules regarding primate possession. But, federal oversight through U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal Welfare Act (AWA) license regulations may require licensing for certain activities, regardless of state law permissions. The AWA establishes minimum care standards and inspection requirements that can apply to private owners.

Our data was extracted in 2025 based on FindLaw information, which was last revised in 2023. According to its database, state regulations regarding monkey ownership fall into three primary categories: states that allow unrestricted ownership, those requiring special permits or licenses, and jurisdictions that completely prohibit primate pets. The follows are some recommendations according to each situation:

For states that allow monkeys as pet:

• Check city and county laws;
• Obtain documentation of the origin of the animal;
• Consider housing requirements and specialized veterinary care.

For states that require a permit:

• Start the application process before acquiring the animal;
• Prepare installations according to state specifications;
• Maintain civil liability insurance (frequently mandatory)

For states that are illegal to own a monkey as pet, the exception may be:

• Service Animals: Some states allow capuchin monkeys for persons with documented disabilities;
• Grandfather Clauses: Animals owned before specific dates may be kept with proper registration;
• Research/Educational Facilities: Different regulations apply to zoos, sanctuaries, and research institutions.

Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Tennessee allow monkeys as pets without special permits.

Fourteen states allow monkey ownership with proper permits and documentation. Delaware, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania have established permit systems with application processes, inspections, and ongoing requirements. Connecticut and Illinois primarily allow grandfathered animals owned before specific dates. Kansas, Michigan, Mississippi, North Dakota, South Dakota, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming each have varying permit requirements and species restrictions. Permit costs typically range from $100-$500, with annual renewal fees and inspection requirements.

The majority of states prohibit pet monkeys. These include major states like California, Florida, New York, and Texas.