No, owning a monkey in Utah is prohibited under Utah Administrative Code R657-3-12, which classifies non-human primates as prohibited wildlife. Exceptions exist only for licensed zoos, research facilities, or wildlife sanctuaries with Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) permits. Private ownership remains illegal, with no pathway for individual permits as of 2026.
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Utah
- Prohibited Species Classification: Non-human primates are explicitly listed as prohibited wildlife under Utah’s wildlife regulations, barring private possession.
- Permit Exclusivity: Only entities holding DWR-issued permits for conservation, education, or research may legally house monkeys, subject to annual inspections.
- Enforcement Mechanisms: Violations carry penalties up to $1,950 per offense under Utah Code § 23-20-10, with confiscation of animals by DWR or local authorities.
Local ordinances in Salt Lake City and St. George mirror state restrictions, reinforcing the ban through municipal animal control policies. The Utah DWR has intensified compliance checks in 2025–2026, targeting illegal primate ownership amid rising exotic pet enforcement nationwide. Federal restrictions under the Lacey Act further complicate interstate transport, even for permitted facilities. Prospective owners must verify compliance with both state and federal frameworks before considering primate ownership.