A person commits an offense if the person keeps or harbors any wild animal. For purposes of this chapter, a wild animal means a species, including each individual of a species, that normally lives in a state of nature and is not ordinarily domesticated; or which, because of its size, vicious nature and other characteristics, would constitute a danger to human life or property greater than that posed by domestic livestock or other animals permitted under this chapter. Such creatures shall include but are not limited to all forms of poisonous reptiles, and nonpoisonous snakes which will exceed a length of six (6) feet when mature, and nonhuman primates. Nonpoisonous snakes which will exceed a length of six (6) feet when mature will not be sold or imported within the city limits. Snakes over six (6) feet presently owned and maintained within the city limits will be exempt from this section, provided the snake is registered with the Animal Control Officer and the snake is maintained in a safe and secure manner. Hamsters, gerbils, ferrets and domesticated breeds of rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, mice, newts and salamanders shall not be considered wild animals for purposes of this chapter.
(Ord. 562, passed 9-21-98)