Rhode Island § 4-18-3 - Importation of Wild Animals
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 4-18-3 — Importation of Wild Animals, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4-18-3. Importation of Wild Animals
R.I. Gen. Laws § 4-18-3
§ 4-18-3. Permit required to import wild animals.
(a) No person shall import into, receive, or possess in this state without first obtaining a permit from the department, animals of the following orders, families, and genera: primates, carnivores, amphibia, reptilia, canidae, and insecta. The director may by regulation designate additional orders, families, genera, or species requiring a permit to import, receive or possess; or the director may by regulation waive the permit requirement for specific species, orders, families and genera.
(b) Any animal care facility accredited by the American zoo and aquarium association (AZA) shall be exempt from this provision, provided, however, the facility provides the state veterinarian with a quarterly summary of any and all animal acquisitions and dispositions.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 1979, ch. 58, § 1; P.L. 1980, ch. 12, § 1; P.L. 2000,
ch. 159, § 1; P.L. 2000, ch. 232, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 4-18-3
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 4-18-3 cover?
Section 4-18-3 ("Importation of Wild Animals") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island § 4-18-3?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 4-18-3" (Rhode Island). 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 Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 4-18-3 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.