Is it legal to own a monkey in Kansas?
The short answer
Yes. Kansas's Dangerous Regulated Animals Act (KSA 32-1301 et seq.) covers only big cats, bears, and non-native venomous snakes - primates are not on the list. Under K.A.R. 115-20-3, non-native exotic wildlife such as monkeys may be legally possessed without a KDWP permit, provided the animal was legally acquired. Federal primate import rules and city ordinances are the real hurdles.
What Kansas law says
KSA 32-1301 defines 'dangerous regulated animals' as listed big cats, bears, and non-native venomous snakes only; K.A.R. 115-20-3 allows possession of legally sourced non-native exotic wildlife without time or number limits.
Which agency regulates monkeys in Kansas
Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks is the authority for monkey (Nonhuman primates) possession in Kansas.
Is there a permit for pet monkeys?
No permit is required at the state level.
Penalties and enforcement
None for lawful possession; unlawful acquisition or release of exotic wildlife is a misdemeanor under Kansas wildlife law.
Local city and county rules
Many Kansas cities (including Wichita and several Johnson County municipalities) ban or restrict primates - check your local animal-control code first.
Legal alternatives in Kansas
- Fennec Fox in Kansas — The world's smallest fox — and one of the few foxes legal to own in several U.S. states.
- Sugar Glider in Kansas — A palm-sized gliding marsupial, legal in most states but banned in a handful of cities and states.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Kansas state permit for a pet monkey?
No state permit is required, but the animal must be confined at all times and never released, and local ordinances may still prohibit it.
Sources
More animals in Kansas
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in Kansas?
- Is it legal to own a serval in Kansas?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in Kansas?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in Kansas 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 Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.