Can You Own a Monkey in New Hampshire? Laws & Permits 2026

New Hampshire does not outright ban private monkey ownership, but strict state and local regulations apply. You must obtain a permit from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG) and comply with municipal zoning laws before acquiring a primate.

This guide covers the exact statutory framework, step-by-step permitting, species restrictions, penalties, and practical next steps for legal compliance.

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Governing Agencies & Codes

New Hampshire regulates exotic animals—including primates—under the following authorities:

• New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) 207:14 – Defines "exotic animals" and establishes permit requirements.
• New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules (Fis) 800 – Outlines permit application procedures, cage standards, and inspection protocols.
• New Hampshire Fish and Game Department (NHFG) – Primary issuing authority for exotic animal permits.
• Local Municipal Ordinances – Cities and towns may impose additional zoning restrictions (e.g., Manchester, Nashua, and Portsmouth require separate approvals).

Federal Overlay

While New Hampshire handles state-level permitting, federal laws may apply:

• Lacey Act (16 U.S.C. §§ 3371-3378) – Prohibits interstate transport of illegally obtained wildlife.
• Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. § 1531 et seq.) – Protects species like chimpanzees, gorillas, and certain lemurs; ownership requires a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) permit.
• Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. § 2131 et seq.) – Regulates dealers and exhibitors but does not directly govern private ownership.

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Step 1: Confirm Species Legality

Not all primates are legal in New Hampshire. The NHFG maintains a banned species list under Fis 802.03. Prohibited primates include:

• Great apes (chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, bonobos)
• Baboons
• Mandrills
• Any primate species listed as endangered or threatened under the ESA

Permissible species (with restrictions):

• Capuchins
• Squirrel monkeys
• Marmosets
• Tamarins
• Lemurs (non-endangered species)

Step 2: Obtain a New Hampshire Exotic Animal Permit

Application Requirements

Submit the following to the NHFG Exotic Wildlife Permit Unit:

1. Completed Form NHFG-EXOTIC (available here).
2. Proof of legal acquisition (e.g., bill of sale, breeder license, or USFWS permit for ESA-listed species).
3. Veterinary health certificate (issued within 30 days of application) confirming:
• Negative tuberculosis test
• Negative herpes B virus test (for macaques, if applicable)
• Up-to-date vaccinations (rabies, distemper)
4. Facility inspection report (conducted by NHFG or a licensed veterinarian) verifying:
• Minimum cage dimensions (varies by species; e.g., 16 sq. ft. for marmosets, 32 sq. ft. for capuchins)
• Secure locking mechanisms
• Climate control (heating/cooling for tropical species)
• Escape-proof design
5. Zoning compliance letter from your local municipality (e.g., town clerk’s office) confirming residential or agricultural zoning allows exotic animals.
6. Non-refundable fee: $100 (resident) / $250 (non-resident).

Processing Timeline

• Initial review: 10–15 business days
• Facility inspection: Scheduled within 30 days of application
• Permit issuance: 5–10 business days post-inspection (if approved)
• Total time: 6–8 weeks

Step 3: Secure Local Approvals

Even with a state permit, local laws may prohibit primate ownership. Key municipalities with additional rules:

• Manchester: Requires a Special Use Permit from the Zoning Board of Adjustment.
• Nashua: Mandates a $200 annual exotic animal license and a home inspection by the Health Department.
• Portsmouth: Bans all primates except for educational or scientific purposes.

Action: Contact your town clerk’s office or zoning board before applying for the state permit.

Step 4: Comply with Ongoing Requirements

Once permitted, you must:

• Renew annually: Submit Form NHFG-EXOTIC-Renewal and pay the $50 renewal fee.
• Report escapes immediately: Call NHFG at (603) 271-3421 within 24 hours.
• Allow unannounced inspections: NHFG may inspect your facility up to twice per year.
• Maintain records: Keep veterinary logs, purchase receipts, and cage maintenance records for 3 years.

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Compliance Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming all primates are legal: Many owners unknowingly acquire banned species (e.g., macaques, baboons).
2. Skipping local zoning approvals: A state permit does not override municipal bans.
3. Inadequate caging: NHFG inspectors will deny permits for cages that fail size or security standards.
4. Purchasing from unlicensed breeders: Only buy from USDA-licensed dealers (verify via the USDA Animal Care Search Tool).
5. Ignoring veterinary requirements: Health certificates must be species-specific (e.g., herpes B testing for macaques).

Exceptions

• Educational institutions: Schools, zoos, and research facilities may qualify for institutional permits with relaxed caging standards.
• Wildlife rehabilitators: Licensed rehabbers can temporarily house primates under RSA 207:14-a.
• USFWS permit holders: Owners of ESA-listed primates (e.g., ring-tailed lemurs) must obtain a federal permit in addition to the state permit.

Penalties for Violations

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### Can I own a capuchin monkey in New Hampshire?

Yes, but you must obtain a New Hampshire Exotic Animal Permit and comply with caging, veterinary, and local zoning requirements. Capuchins are legal but require a minimum 32 sq. ft. enclosure with vertical climbing space.

### What happens if I move to New Hampshire with a monkey?

You have 30 days to apply for a NHFG permit. Failure to do so is a misdemeanor punishable by a $500–$2,000 fine and potential confiscation of the animal. Contact NHFG before moving to initiate the process.

### How long does it take to get a monkey permit in NH?

The process takes 6–8 weeks, including application review, facility inspection, and permit issuance. Delays occur if:

• Your cage fails inspection (common for first-time applicants).
• Your local municipality requires additional approvals.

### Can I breed monkeys in New Hampshire?

No. New Hampshire prohibits private breeding of primates under Fis 802.04. Only USDA-licensed facilities (e.g., zoos, research labs) may breed primates.

### Are there any age restrictions for owning a monkey?

Yes. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for an exotic animal permit. Minors may not legally own primates in New Hampshire.

### What should I do if my monkey escapes?

1. Contain the area: Block off exits and alert neighbors.
2. Call NHFG immediately: Dial (603) 271-3421 (24/7 hotline).
3. Notify local animal control: Provide a description and last known location.
4. Document the incident: Submit a written report to NHFG within 48 hours.

Failure to report an escape is a $1,000 fine and may result in permit revocation.

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Action Plan for Legal Monkey Ownership

1. Research species: Confirm your desired primate is legal in New Hampshire (see NHFG Banned Species List).
2. Contact your town clerk: Verify local zoning laws (e.g., Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth).
3. Find a USDA-licensed breeder: Use the USDA Animal Care Search Tool to locate a reputable seller.
4. Schedule a pre-application inspection: Hire a licensed veterinarian to assess your facility before applying.
5. Submit Form NHFG-EXOTIC: Include all required documents (health certificate, zoning letter, fee).
6. Prepare for inspection: Ensure your cage meets NHFG standards (size, security, climate control).
7. Renew annually: Set a reminder to submit Form NHFG-EXOTIC-Renewal and pay the $50 fee.

Official Contacts & Resources

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute formal legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Laws and regulations may change; consult the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department or a licensed attorney for current requirements.