What are the requirements for keeping exotic animals in residential premises?

Keeping exotic animals in residential areas in Calgary is regulated by a complex system of federal, provincial, and municipal legislation, which creates a multi-level approach to controlling and restricting this type of animal ownership.

Alberta provincial legislation

The province of Alberta imposes fundamental restrictions on the keeping of exotic animals through a “controlled animal” system under the Wildlife Act. This legislation prohibits the keeping of more than 500 species of animals classified as “controlled animals” without the appropriate permits.

The list of controlled animals that require special permits includes:

  • All primates: monkeys, chimpanzees, orangutans, gorillas.
  • All species of big cats (except domestic cats): servals, caracals, lynxes, and other wild cats.
  • All bears: black, brown, and polar bears.

Reptiles are also subject to strict regulations:

  • All poisonous snakes: cobras, vipers, and shield-tailed snakes.
  • Large non-poisonous snakes: anacondas, Burmese pythons, African rock pythons, reticulated pythons.
  • All crocodiles, alligators, caimans, and monitors require special permits.

Calgary municipal regulations

The City of Calgary imposes additional restrictions through the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw 47M2021. This document defines an “animal” as: “any bird, reptile, amphibian, or mammal, other than humans and wildlife.”

Although the bylaw does not contain specific provisions regarding exotic animals, it does establish:

  • Mandatory licensing for dogs and cats over 3 months of age.
  • Maximum ownership limits of no more than 6 dogs and 6 cats per household.

Restrictions in residential premises

Private rental

In Alberta, landlords have broad powers to set rules for keeping animals. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, landlords can decide:

  • whether to allow animals on their property,
  • set limits on the type, size, and number of animals allowed.

Many landlords in Calgary have strict bans on exotic animals. Typical restrictions include:

  • a ban on reptiles (especially snakes of any size),
  • spiders,
  • wild or exotic animals,
  • aggressive or dangerous animals of any kind.

Some landlords only allow small reptiles (less than 6 inches in length) — a maximum of 2 per household, kept in a secure aquarium.

Condominiums

Condominium corporations in Calgary have the right to establish their own rules through bylaws. These may include:

  • limits on the number of animals,
  • size and weight restrictions,
  • breed restrictions,
  • bans on certain types of animals.

For example, Red Haus Condo Corporation strictly prohibits:

  • livestock,
  • rodents,
  • reptiles,
  • arachnids,
  • birds,
  • exotic animals.

Even if the condominium does not have direct restrictions, it is necessary to obtain written approval from the condominium board.

Special categories of permitted animals

Livestock Emotional Support Animals (LESA)

Calgary has a unique program called Livestock Emotional Support Animals (LESA), which was adopted in 2018. It allows the keeping of animals such as:

  • chickens,
  • miniature horses,
  • pigs.

To obtain LESA approval, you must:

  1. Be 18 years of age or older.
  2. Obtain a letter from a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist confirming the need for the animal.
  3. Pass a property inspection to verify that adequate space is available.
  4. Comply with all city ordinances.

Important: A LESA permit does not confer the same rights as a service animal. Landlords and condominiums are not required to allow LESA animals on their property.

Urban Livestock

Calgary allows certain types of livestock to be kept through the Urban Livestock program, which covers:

  • bee colonies,
  • chickens (but not roosters),
  • pigeons.

The program requires:

  • special licensing,
  • compliance with strict conditions regarding the number of animals, placement, and care.

Veterinary Support and Professional Services

Calgary has specialized veterinary clinics for exotic animals. Calgary Avian & Exotic Pet Clinic is the only clinic in Alberta that specializes exclusively in exotic animals: birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, rodents, and other small pets.

Services for exotic animals are also provided by:

  • Stoney Trail Veterinary Clinic
  • Paramount 24 Hr Animal Hospital

These clinics emphasize the importance of preventive care, as exotic animals often hide signs of illness until late stages.

Importing and purchasing exotic animals

When importing exotic animals into Alberta, you must:

  • obtain import permits for controlled animals (processing takes up to 2 weeks),
  • provide a health certificate,
  • obtain commercial liability insurance.

Rescue organizations and educational resources

There are organizations in Calgary dedicated to the rehabilitation of exotic animals, including:

  • Cobb's Exotic Animal Rescue & Education Foundation

They are involved in animal rescue, public education, and highlighting the risks of impulsive purchases of exotic animals.

Practical recommendations for future owners

Before purchasing an exotic animal in Calgary, potential owners should:

  1. Check provincial restrictions: Make sure that the animal you have chosen is not on the list of controlled species.
  2. Obtain written permits: If you rent your home, always obtain confirmation from your landlord or condominium board.
  3. Check municipal bylaws: Make sure that keeping a particular animal is permitted in Calgary.
  4. Consider long-term needs: Exotic animals often have complex care and dietary requirements.
  5. Ensure veterinary support: Make sure you have access to a specialized veterinarian.
  6. Consider insurance: Some landlords require proof of liability insurance before allowing pets.

Conclusion

The exotic animal regulation system in Calgary is comprehensive and multi-layered, with an emphasis on:

  • public safety,
  • animal welfare,
  • prevention of environmental risks.

While some exotic animals are permitted under certain conditions, most species require special permits or are completely prohibited. Prospective owners are advised to conduct thorough research and obtain all necessary permits before purchasing any unusual animal.