Are Ball Pythons Illegal to Sell in New York City? Yes.

Yes, it is illegal to sell ball pythons (Python regius) in New York City.

Legal Basis

New York City Health Code §161.01 (Wild Animals) prohibits the sale, possession, or harboring of all non-human primates, wild felines, wild canines, bears, venomous reptiles, crocodilians, and all other snakes — including non-venomous constrictors like ball pythons.

What This Means

• Pet stores in NYC cannot legally stock or sell ball pythons.
• Private sales (Craigslist, expos, reptile shows within the 5 boroughs) are also illegal.
• Possession is prohibited — if found, the animal can be seized by NYPD Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad or NYC Health Dept.
• Penalties: Fines up to $2,000 per animal; possible misdemeanor charges.

Exceptions

• Accredited zoos (AZA) (Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, etc.).
• Licensed research/educational institutions.
• Licensed wildlife rehabilitators.

Outside NYC

Legal in most of New York State (outside the 5 boroughs) with standard reptile permits — but check local county/municipal laws (e.g., Westchester, Suffolk, Nassau have restrictions).

Why the Ban?

Public safety (escapes, bites, salmonella), animal welfare (impulse buys, improper care), and environmental risk (released pets — though ball pythons unlikely to survive NY winters).

If you live in NYC and want a reptile: Consider leopard geckos, bearded dragons, corn snakes (check local legality), or turtles/tortoises — but verify each species against §161.01.