Monkey Ownership in New Mexico: Illegal Without Specialized Permits

**Yes, private monkey ownership is illegal in New Mexico** for the general public. The state classifies all non-human primates as "protected wildlife" under the **Wildlife Conservation Act (Chapter 17, NMSA 1978)** and **New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC) 19.35.7**.

Legal Framework

• No private pet permits: NMDGF does not issue permits for primates as personal pets
• Allowed possessors: Only AZA-accredited zoos, registered research facilities, licensed wildlife rehabilitators, USDA Class C exhibitors, and qualified sanctuaries
• Permit requirements: Facility inspection, veterinary care plan, escape protocols, liability insurance, federal USDA license, species-specific expertise
• Import/export: Requires NMDGF import permit + USFWS clearance + CDC compliance (primates = high zoonotic risk)

Why the Ban?

• Public safety: Herpes B virus (macaques), biting/mauling risk, unpredictable aggression at maturity
• Animal welfare: Complex social, cognitive, spatial needs impossible in private settings
• Conservation: Many primates endangered; pet trade fuels wild capture
• Zoonotic disease: TB, hepatitis, SIV, parasites transmissible to humans

Penalties

Violations: **Misdemeanor** — up to $1,000 fine, 1 year jail, seizure/forfeiture of animal, permit revocation. Federal Lacey Act violations add $20,000+ fines, 5 years prison.

Legal Alternatives

Visit ABQ BioPark Zoo (Albuquerque), Alameda Park Zoo (Alamogordo), or accredited sanctuaries. Support primate conservation via WWF, Jane Goodall Institute, or Pan African Sanctuary Alliance.

Regulations updated 2023; verify with NMDGF (505-476-8000) for current rules.