A. Definition: A "wild animal" is defined as any species of mammal, reptile, amphibian, arachnid or fowl which is not naturally tame or gentle but is of a wild nature or disposition, and which, because it is carnivorous in its wild state, or is poisonous, or because of its size, physical makeup, vicious nature or other characteristics, would constitute a danger to human life, domestic animals or property, including, but not limited to, a lion, tiger, leopard, ocelot, jaguar, cheetah, margay, mountain lion, lynx, bobcat, jaguarundi and other wild cat of the family felidae, hyena, bear, wolverine, badger, wolf, coyote, boar, alligator, crocodile, any poisonous or venomous biting or injecting species of amphibian, arachnid, or reptile or any life threatening reptile.
B. Keeping Of Wild Animals: It shall be unlawful for anyone to own, harbor, or permit at large any wild animal without obtaining a written permit granted by the town council. Such permit shall be granted only if it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the council that the animal will not constitute a threat to public health or safety.
Nothing in this section shall be construed as to preclude the following:
1. The exhibition of domesticated animals or farm animals at a fair or other event held for the purpose of displaying said animals for judging or exhibition of animal husbandry;
2. The exhibition or display of any animals under the direct auspices of any public or any private school located within the town, provided said exhibition or display is for educational purposes only and no admission is charged;
3. The exhibition or display in the ordinary course of business of a pet shop within the premises identified in the applicable business license, which premises shall not include any space on the exterior of the store premises or any space within the common area of a mall or shopping center or strip shopping center;
4. Veterinarians, in the ordinary course of their business;
5. Mobile appearances by the humane society; and
6. The use, display or exhibition of any animal pursuant to a special use permit issued by the town council. Requests for such permits shall be made to the town manager who shall cause the request to be placed on the next available town council agenda. (2006 Code)