Is it legal to own a monkey in Indiana?
The short answer
Yes. Indiana's Wild Animal Possession Permit system covers listed Class I, II, and III species — and primates aren't in any class. That leaves monkeys legal at the state level with no permit, subject to local ordinances.
What Indiana law says
312 IAC 9-11 builds its classes around native species and listed dangerous animals (bears, wild cats, wolves, venomous reptiles). Primates fall outside the scheme entirely.
Which agency regulates monkeys in Indiana
No state agency regulates monkey (Nonhuman primates) possession in Indiana — authority rests with local animal control. See the state wildlife agency for related rules.
Is there a permit for pet monkeys?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
None at the state level; local penalties where ordinances apply.
Local city and county rules
Indianapolis and other municipalities restrict primates — check local code.
Legal alternatives in Indiana
- Sugar Glider in Indiana — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Does Indiana really not require anything for a monkey?
No state permit exists because primates aren't in the WAP classes. Keep source documentation and check your city ordinance — that's the real constraint.
Sources
More animals in Indiana
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Indiana?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Indiana?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Indiana?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Indiana page, or compare every state on the pet monkey laws by state page.
Last verified 2026-07-03 against the cited primary sources. This is a research directory, not legal advice — confirm current rules with your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.