Colorado Snake Laws

Colorado's native amphibians and reptiles - sometimes collectively referred to as "herptiles" - are a diverse group, consisting of 1 species of salamander, 16 species of frogs and toads, 5 turtle species, 19 species of lizards, and 26 species of snakes. For several of these species there are two or more subspecies which occur in Colorado. For a complete list and detailed information about.

Reptile Ownership Laws by State *All information is current as of June 2025. For use as a reference only. Local laws may be more restrictive than state laws.

At the same time there is considerable confusion over the laws regarding such private possession. Colorado wildlife law generally prohibits the importation, live possession, sale, barter, trade, or purchase of any species of wildlife native to Colorado (33-6-113(1), C.R.S.). If you're a fan of reptiles and snakes, you can legally collect these native Colorado species to add to your collection.

Venomous snakes (even hognose), alligator snapping turtles, Colorado River toads, cane toads, and degu cannot be sold in Colorado. Any turtle or tortoise under 4 inches cannot be sold in Colorado. Anything poisonous or venomous (i.e.

scorpions) needs to be labeled as such. Colorado Reptiles & Amphibians - Prohibited Actions and Protections - Colorado (1) It is unlawful for any person to hunt, take, or have in such person's possession any wildlife that is the property of this state as provided in section 33-1-101, except as permitted by articles 1 to 6 of this title or by rule or regulation of the commission. Reptile Law Support Center Below are links to official pages, sites, forms, or permits regarding reptile and amphibian laws for the locality described.

If you find a link to the laws, regulations, or permits that need to be listed here, please add it using the form below. If you find a link to be dead, please report it. The authority of Bureau of Animal Protection (BAP) agents and the Colorado Department of Agriculture to enforce Colorado's animal protection statutes is described in the Animal Protection Act, Article 42, Title 35 of the Colorado Revised Statutes (the Act).

Details what is allowed regarding the collecting of native reptiles and amphibians in California: California Laws Regarding Reptiles and Amphibians It is currently (as of 2024) illegal to own any captive bred colubrid/reptile that breeds in North America unless you are a licensed breeder through Colorado Parks and Wildlife. This includes, Milk Snakes, King Snakes, Corn Snakes, Garter Snakes. Hazing must be consistent with federal law.

If gray wolves are on the list of federally endangered or threatened species, hazing is prohibited unless authorized by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.