In New York City, the legality of exotic spiders is a very complex question that can only be decided after considering the city’s local laws and regulations. So let’s try and untangle that web of rules:
Legal framework
For starters, NYC is pretty restrictive when it comes to the rules on exotic pet-keeping. It is led by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, which definitely takes wild animals seriously. Generally, if it is considered a wild animal like many spiders are. Then you will have a hard time keeping it as a pet without special permission. In that case, if a person were to think about whether exotic spiders are banned in New York City, the answer would be very vague.
Exotic Spiders of NYC
You may think, “Oh, it’s just a spider!” But technically, many of these small creatures fall under the classification of “wild animals.” That makes them forbidden to be kept without a permit. So be sure to check ahead of time whether your soon-to-be pet spider will be allowed back home.
Commonly Banned Species
Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty. Some are absolutely prohibited because the potential poisonous nature or health risk it may pose to its owner or that around it. Examples include the Brazilian wandering spider and the black widow spider; these are absolutely banned. You might not be allowed to have such a pet even if the spider looks harmless.
Allowances and Exemptions
Now you probably ask yourself if there is a way out of those laws. Well, you can actually file for permission to bring such beautiful exotic animals to your home, but probably only for educational or exhibition purposes-not in the living room. Well, if you really want to keep an exotic spider in your house, be prepared for a sheet of paper. You would have to demonstrate that you could adequately care for it, and obtaining a permit for something that might very well be considered dangerous would be highly difficult, to say the least.
Public Safety Issue
Primarily, it boils down to public safety. Exotic spiders bite – and not in a cute way. Venomous bites or allergic reactions may follow, and nobody needs such a headache. And of course, there’s also the chance for an introduction of non-native species to the local ecosystem. That is why NYC keeps such a tight grip on who keeps what.
Conclusion
So to this end, as to whether or not exotic spiders are legal in New York City, the short answer is no. Most species are either completely forbidden or fall into this incredibly confusing gray area that makes ownership extremely difficult. If you are seriously considering an exotic spider as your new best friend, make sure you check with all of the appropriate local authorities and maybe even get some legal advice.
