Montréal bylaws: Exotic & Prohibited Animals

Public Health and Welfare Quebec 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Quebec

Montréal, Quebec owners of non-traditional pets should know local rules on exotic and prohibited species. This guide explains which animals are regulated, how the city enforces bylaws, where to find permits or exemptions, and practical steps to report or comply. It summarizes official Montréal resources and the office responsible for animal control so owners can act promptly and avoid fines or seizure.

What the bylaws cover

City bylaws and municipal services address possession, sale, transport and public safety concerns related to animals that are not commonly kept as pets. Regulations typically distinguish domestic pets from wild or exotic species and may require permits, containment standards, or prohibition.

Check official municipal pages before acquiring any exotic species.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Montréal's by-law enforcement and public safety teams; specific penalties and processes are set out in municipal regulations or related administrative notices. Where the official city page does not list fines or escalation in detail, this article notes that those amounts are not specified on the cited page and advises contacting enforcement for exact figures.[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; contact By-law Enforcement for current amounts.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences are handled under municipal enforcement procedures and may result in higher fines or court summons; specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to remove or relocate animals, seizure, quarantine, or destruction where public safety or animal welfare is at risk; exact measures may be described in an order from By-law Enforcement.
  • Enforcer and inspections: By-law Enforcement and Public Security inspect complaints and may issue notices; animal control officers carry out seizures or welfare interventions.
  • Complaint pathways: report concerns to the City of Montréal's animal services or by-law enforcement portal for investigation.[1]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits are set by the enforcement notice or municipal procedure; specific appeal deadlines are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

Some municipalities publish permit applications or exemption forms for keeping certain species; the City of Montréal site is the primary source for any published forms. If no form is listed, a written request or variance application to By-law Enforcement may be required and fees, if any, are posted with the application.

  • Permits/forms: check the City of Montréal's animal regulations and permit pages for downloadable forms or instructions.[1]
  • Fees: not specified on the cited page; fees, where applicable, are listed with each form.
  • Deadlines: any time limits are specified with the permit or notice; if absent, inquire with the enforcement office.
If a specific bylaw section or fine is not published, the municipal office will provide the current figures on request.

Common violations

  • Possessing a species designated as prohibited by municipal regulation or public health authorities.
  • Failing to obtain a required permit or variance.
  • Inadequate containment creating public safety or wildlife risks.
  • Sale or transfer of prohibited animals within the city limits without authorization.

Action steps for owners

  • Before acquiring any exotic animal, consult the City of Montréal rules and confirm whether a permit or prohibition applies.[1]
  • If a permit is required, download or request the application and submit it to By-law Enforcement per the city instructions.
  • To report a public-safety concern or suspected prohibited animal, contact municipal By-law Enforcement.

FAQ

Which exotic animals are allowed in Montréal?
Allowed species and prohibitions are defined by municipal rules and linked provincial regulations; consult the City of Montréal official animal pages for current lists.[1]
What happens if I keep a prohibited species?
Enforcement can include fines, orders to remove the animal, seizure, or other measures; exact penalties are published by the city or provided on request and are not specified on the cited page.[1]
How do I apply for an exemption or permit?
Application procedures, required documents, and fees are available from the City of Montréal's permits and animal rules pages; if no online form exists, contact By-law Enforcement directly.[1]

How-To

  1. Identify the species and collect basic details: location, photos, and owner information if available.
  2. Check the City of Montréal animal regulations page to confirm whether the species is listed as prohibited or requires a permit.[1]
  3. If a permit is needed, complete and submit the official form or written request to By-law Enforcement following the instructions on the city site.
  4. Report non-compliance or immediate public-safety risks to municipal By-law Enforcement or emergency services as directed on the city pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify an animal's legal status with City of Montréal resources before acquiring it.
  • Contact By-law Enforcement for permit details, fines, or to report violations.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Montréal — Animals and pets (official municipal page)

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