Owning an Ocelot in Arizona: Legal with Special Permit

In Arizona, owning an ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is not outright illegal but requires a Special License from the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) under A.R.S. § 17-306 and Commission Rule R12-4-406.

Permit Requirements

• Applicant: Must be a qualified individual or organization (zoo, sanctuary, educator, researcher).
• Experience: Demonstrated expertise in felid husbandry, veterinary care, enrichment.
• Facilities: AZGFD-inspected enclosure meeting size, security, climate, safety standards.
• Conservation Purpose: Education, research, species survival—not pet keeping.
• Federal Compliance: Also requires USFWS permit (Endangered Species Act — ocelots listed Endangered in US; CITES Appendix I).

Private Pet Ownership

Effectively prohibited. AZGFD does not issue permits for private pet ownership. Ocelots are dangerous, specialized, and conservation-critical.

Violations: Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 6 months jail, $2,500 fine), seizure, federal penalties.