1. (1) An individual must obtain a certificate of registration prior to collecting, possessing, importing, or propagating any reptile, whether wild caught or captive-bred, that is:

   1. (a) native to Utah;
   2. (b) venomous; and
   3. (c) a bite from which may cause substantial physical injury to humans ordinarily requiring medical treatment.
2. (2) An individual must be at least 18 years of age to receive a certificate of registration pursuant to this section.

3. (3) To apply for a certificate of registration, a person must submit the following materials to the division:

   1. (a) the species and number of individual animals requested;
   2. (b) the source from which they are to be acquired;
   3. (c) a description of the knowledge, skills, and experience the applicant has in handling venomous reptiles, and if any mentor will be utilized during the term of the certificate of registration;
   4. (d) the address where the animals will be housed and written verification from the local governmental entity that the activity requested is consistent with their ordinances;
   5. (e) a description of the facilities and equipment to be utilized in housing the animals;
   6. (f) all documentation required by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food for lawful import, if necessary;
   7. (g) verification that appropriate medical treatment from a medical provider is available in proximity to the location where the animals will be housed; and
   8. (h) registration with the division for propagation activities, if requested.

4. (4) The division may deny a certificate of registration application if:

   1. (a) the applicant fails to submit any of the required application materials in this section;
   2. (b) approval of which would violate local, state, or federal law;
   3. (c) there is a basis for denial described in R657-53-17; or
   4. (d) approval of which may continue to pose a substantial public safety concern.
5. (5) All activities conducted under a certificate of registration authorization issued pursuant to this section are subject to the mandatory reporting requirements identified in R657-53-19.

KEY: wildlife, import restrictions, amphibians, reptiles

Date of Last Change: October 2, 2023

Notice of Continuation: March 15, 2023

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 23A-2-304; 23A-2-305; 23A-5-309; 23A-5-305