Do you need to obtain a special permit for exotic animals?

Obtaining special permits for exotic animals in Calgary is one of the most complex aspects of animal legislation, involving several levels of regulation and different types of permits depending on the species of animal. For Ukrainian newcomers considering keeping exotic animals, understanding this process is critical to complying with the law and avoiding legal problems.

Regulatory structure and types of permits

The regulation of exotic animals in Calgary operates through a complex system of overlapping federal, provincial, and municipal authorities.

  • Federal level — Environment and Climate Change Canada administers the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) permit system for internationally protected species.

  • Provincial level — Alberta Environment and Protected Areas administers the controlled animal system under the Wildlife Act.

  • Municipal level — Calgary's Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw establishes a licensing system for permitted animals and special permits for certain categories.

Federal CITES permits for exotic animals

CITES permits are required for many exotic pets, including parrots, lizards, turtles, hybrid cats, some fish, and snakes.

Environment and Climate Change Canada offers a Certificate of Ownership (pet passport) for Canadian residents who frequently travel with their CITES-listed exotic animals.

Application process:

  • Complete CITES Form A3
  • Submit to Canadian Wildlife Service
  • Complete form is mandatory (incomplete applications will not be accepted)
  • Certificate is valid for 3 years, allows multiple exports and re-imports
  • Processing time — up to 40 days

Provincial permits for controlled animals

Alberta Wildlife Act classifies many exotic species as “controlled animals”.

Section 55 of the Wildlife Act prohibits the possession of wildlife or controlled animals without a permit. The list of controlled animals includes:

  • Primates
  • Big cats
  • Bears
  • Poisonous snakes
  • Other dangerous species

It is extremely difficult for private individuals to obtain such permits. They are most often issued only to:

  • accredited zoos
  • research institutions
  • specialized rehabilitation centers

Calgary municipal licenses and permits

Calgary's Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw establishes a systematic approach to licensing.

  • Standard licenses for cats and dogs: CAD 21–310
  • LESA permits (Livestock Emotional Support Animal) — for chickens, miniature horses, pigs (70 CAD)
  • Medical recommendation required
  • Site inspection required

Calgary Urban Livestock Programs

Program for certain species traditionally considered farm animals:

  • Backyard hens — application + training + identification number
  • Bee colonies — license 11 CAD, mandatory experience or course
  • Pigeons — special procedure

Special permits and exemptions

  • Service dogs and guide dogs — licenses are required, but no fees
  • Excess Animal Permits — for keeping more than 6 dogs or cats
  • Professional Dog Walker permits — for walking more than 6 dogs at a time

Application procedures and deadlines

  • Municipal permits — apply via 311 or online, processing time: several weeks

  • Provincial permits — apply to the Fish and Wildlife Division, processing time: up to 2 weeks

  • CITES permits — up to 40 days

Permit fees

  • Municipal: from CAD 21 to CAD 310

  • LESA permits: CAD 70

  • Urban livestock licenses: 70 CAD

  • Bee colonies: 11 CAD

  • Fish culture licenses: 100 CAD / 5 years

Compliance requirements and ongoing obligations

Obtaining a permit is only the beginning. Owners must:

  • Renew their license annually
  • Comply with housing and care requirements
  • Agree to inspections
  • Report relocation of animals
  • Not transfer livestock without permission

Enforcement and penalties

Violations may result in:

  • Fines: from CAD 100 to CAD 500

  • Confiscation of animals

  • Criminal liability

  • Keeping unlicensed pets: CAD 250 fine

  • False declarations: CAD 500 fine

  • Violation of the Wildlife Act — possible imprisonment

Alternatives and legal options

  • Captive breeding operations — with registration with the federal government
  • Research permits — for educational and scientific purposes
  • Accredited zoos and rehabilitation facilities — simplified permits for specialists

Practical aspects for owners of exotic animals

  • Veterinary care for exotic animals may be limited

  • Specialized food and equipment — expensive and hard to find

  • Insurance for exotic animals rarely covers risks

  • Problems with renting a home

  • Long-term care: some species live for decades

Future trends and changes

  • Trend toward tighter restrictions

  • Canadian Veterinary Medical Association opposes the keeping of wild and exotic animals

  • New municipal bylaws in Canada restrict exotic animals

  • CITES is pressuring countries to tighten controls

Conclusion

Obtaining a special permit for exotic animals in Calgary depends on:

  • the type of animal

  • purpose of keeping

  • level of regulation

Most truly exotic animals (primates, predators, poisonous reptiles) require provincial permits, which are virtually unavailable to private individuals.

However, certain categories of exotic animals can be kept legally with the appropriate permits and compliance with all requirements.

With proper planning, adequate resources, and responsibility, it is possible to legally keep exotic animals in Calgary, but it requires significant knowledge, financial resources, and dedication.