SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-nyc-bans-pythons

Can you legally keep a ball python as a pet in New York City?

No. The city's Health Code bans every member of the python family.

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  1. Yes, any snake is allowed
  2. No, the city bans all pythons ✔
  3. Only if it is under 4 feet

Why: New York City's Health Code bans keeping any member of the python family, which includes ball pythons. Always check your own city or county rules before buying a reptile.

Huh, didn't know that: The same New York City rule also bans green iguanas.

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What do you call a snake in a big city? A city slither.
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References

Answer: No, the city bans all pythons. New York City's Health Code bans keeping any member of the python family, which includes ball pythons. Always check your own city or county rules before buying a reptile.

  1. New York City Health Code Article 161, section 161.01 (NYC Department of Health) www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/about/healthcode/health-code-article161.pdf
    any member of the family Pythonidae, including, but not limited to, the African rock python, Indian or Burmese python
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. New York City Health Code Article 161, section 161.01 (NYC Department of Health) www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/about/healthcode/health-code-article161.pdf
    any member of the family Iguanidae, including the green or common iguana
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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