Colorado § 18-9-206 - Unauthorized release of an animal - penalty - restitution.
Full text of Colorado Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-206 — Unauthorized release of an animal - penalty - restitution., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 18-9-206. Unauthorized release of an animal - penalty - restitution.
(1) Any person who intentionally releases any animal which is lawfully confined for scientific, research, commercial, legal sporting, or educational purposes or for public safety purposes because the animal has been determined to be dangerous to people, has an infectious disease, or is quarantined to determine whether or not it has an infectious disease without the consent of the owner or custodian of such animal commits the offense of unauthorized release of an animal.
(2) Unauthorized release of an animal is a class 2 misdemeanor.
(3) Any person who is convicted of unauthorized release of an animal shall be ordered to pay restitution for any damages resulting from such release, including the cost of restoring any animal to confinement, the cost of restoring the health of any animal which is released, the cost of any damage to real or personal property which is caused by a released animal, or any cost which results if the release causes the failure of an experiment, including the costs of repeating the experiment, replacement of any animal released, and the cost of labor and materials associated with such experiment.
Source: L. 92: Entire section added, p. 319, § 1, effective July 1.
Source: official Colorado text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado § 18-9-206
What does Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-206 cover?
Section 18-9-206 ("Unauthorized release of an animal - penalty - restitution.") is part of the Colorado Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Colorado. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Colorado § 18-9-206?
A common citation format is "Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-9-206" (Colorado). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Colorado law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Colorado official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Colorado attorney.
How does Colorado § 18-9-206 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Colorado can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Colorado.