You Can’t Own a Monkey in Colorado, But You Can Close By

It seems like owning a monkey as a pet, similar to Ross from the TV show 'Friends' or Michael Jackson once did, would be a fun idea.

However, in Colorado and numerous other states, those kinds of shenanigans are out of the question from a legal standpoint.

Is it Legal to Own a Monkey in Colorado?

While Colorado is pretty lax on things like marijuana and psychedelics when it comes to the law, owning a pet monkey is strictly prohibited.

In What States that Border Colorado is it Legal to own a Pet Monkey?

Yes, it is illegal to own a pet monkey in Colorado, but there are numerous states that border the Centennial State in which it is allowed.

For example, you can legally keep a monkey as a pet in Kansas and Nebraska, much like you would a dog or a cat. It's also legal to keep a monkey as a pet in Wyoming, Arizona, and Oklahoma, although these states do require a special permit to do so in accordance with local laws.

What States Besides Colorado Have Banned Owning a Pet Monkey?

A number of states have similar laws banning ownership of a pet monkey, including other states that border Colorado, like New Mexico and Utah.

Read More: Colorado is Home to Some of the World's Deadliest Animals

Check out the full list of states that allow residents to keep a monkey as a pet, as well as the states that do not allow it here.