Yes, owning a monkey in Arizona is legal under specific conditions.
Arizona permits private ownership of certain non-human primates, but compliance with state and local regulations is mandatory. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) enforces restrictions, and municipal ordinances may impose additional constraints. Recent 2026 legislative shifts require primate owners to secure liability insurance and undergo annual veterinary inspections, reflecting heightened public health and safety concerns.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Arizona
- Permit Requirements: A Class IV Wildlife Holding Permit is mandatory for owning non-human primates, issued by the AZGFD. Applicants must demonstrate adequate housing, veterinary care plans, and proof of liability insurance covering primate-related incidents.
- Species Restrictions: Only select species (e.g., capuchins, squirrel monkeys) are permitted; prosimians, great apes, and certain macaques are prohibited. The AZGFD maintains an updated list of restricted species, revised biennially.
- Local Ordinances: Cities like Phoenix and Tucson impose additional zoning and bonding requirements. For example, Phoenix mandates a $5,000 surety bond for primate ownership, while Pima County requires a secondary inspection by a certified veterinarian.
Failure to comply with these regulations may result in permit revocation, fines up to $15,000, or confiscation of the animal under ARS § 17-306. Prospective owners should consult the AZGFD’s 2026 Compliance Guide for primate-specific updates.