What Pets Are Legal to Own in Ontario? A Complete Guide for North York Residents

If you live in North York or anywhere in Toronto and you're wondering what pets are legal in Ontario, you're not alone. Ontario's pet ownership laws are layered — provincial legislation sets a baseline, but municipal bylaws in Toronto (which governs North York) can impose additional restrictions. Whether you already have a pet or you're planning to welcome a new animal into your home, understanding the rules before you commit is essential. This guide breaks down Ontario's legal pet framework in plain language so you can make an informed decision.

Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change, and local bylaws can vary. Always verify current rules with the City of Toronto or a qualified legal professional before acquiring any animal.

Ontario's Legal Framework for Pet Ownership

In Ontario, the primary legislation governing animals includes the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Community Standards Act (2019), the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, and the Endangered Species Act. Together, these laws define which animals can be legally kept, bred, or owned by private citizens in the province.

The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act is particularly important for exotic pet ownership. It prohibits private ownership of many wild native species — including most wild mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds found naturally in Ontario — without a special permit. The Endangered Species Act further restricts any ownership or trade of species classified as threatened or endangered.

On top of provincial law, the City of Toronto (which includes North York) enforces its own animal bylaws under Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 349. These rules can be more restrictive than provincial standards. When provincial and municipal rules conflict, the stricter rule typically applies.

Common Pets That Are Legal to Own in Ontario

As of 2026, the following domesticated animals are generally legal to own in Ontario and in North York specifically, subject to standard care and licensing requirements:

• Dogs — Legal, but Toronto requires a licence for all dogs. Breed-specific legislation (BSL) in Ontario prohibits pit bulls under the Dog Owners' Liability Act, 2005.
• Cats — Legal and do not require a provincial licence in most municipalities, though Toronto does recommend licensing for identification purposes.
• Rabbits — Legal and popular household pets across Ontario.
• Guinea pigs, hamsters, and gerbils — Legal and widely kept as companion animals.
• Rats and mice (domestic) — Legal. Wild-caught rodents are not permitted.
• Domestic ferrets — Legal in Ontario. Toronto had previously banned them but lifted restrictions.
• Birds (domestic species) — Common domestic birds such as budgerigars, cockatiels, canaries, and parrots are legal. Wild native birds are protected under provincial law.
• Domestic fish — Aquarium fish are legal. Releasing non-native fish into Ontario waterways is illegal.
• Reptiles (some) — Certain non-venomous, non-native reptiles such as corn snakes, leopard geckos, and bearded dragons are legal. Native Ontario reptiles and venomous species are prohibited.
• Hedgehogs — Legal in Ontario. Toronto permits them under municipal bylaws.
• Chinchillas — Legal in Ontario.

Animals That Are Generally Prohibited in Ontario

Ontario and the City of Toronto prohibit ownership of a wide range of animals. As of 2026, animals that are generally not legal to own as pets in North York or Ontario at large include:

• Pit bulls — Prohibited under Ontario's Dog Owners' Liability Act (breed-specific legislation).
• Big cats — Lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, and other large wild felids are prohibited.
• Bears — All bear species are prohibited for private ownership.
• Wolves and wolf hybrids — Prohibited under provincial wildlife law.
• Primates — Monkeys, apes, and other primates are banned in Toronto under municipal bylaws.
• Venomous reptiles — Venomous snakes, lizards, and other venomous reptiles are prohibited in Toronto.
• Alligators and crocodilians — Prohibited.
• Wild native Ontario species — Including raccoons, foxes, skunks, opossums, and native birds of prey.
• Endangered species — Ownership or trade of any species listed under Ontario's Endangered Species Act is a serious offence.

This list is not exhaustive. Toronto's Chapter 349 bylaw contains a detailed prohibited animal schedule. If an animal you're considering is not clearly listed as domesticated and legal, contact Toronto Animal Services before acquiring it.

Ontario Exotic Pet Laws: What North York Residents Need to Know

Ontario's exotic pet laws can be confusing because "exotic" doesn't mean illegal — and "common" doesn't automatically mean permitted. The key question is whether the animal is a domesticated species, whether it is native to Ontario's wild, and whether it appears on any provincial or municipal prohibited list.

Some animals that are legally kept in other Canadian provinces may be prohibited specifically in Toronto due to the city's additional bylaws. Sugar gliders, for example, are legal in some Ontario municipalities but have faced varying interpretations under Toronto bylaws. Always check with Toronto Animal Services directly for the most current guidance.

It is also worth noting that acquiring an animal is only the first step. Owners have ongoing legal obligations under Ontario's Community Standards Act, including providing adequate food, water, shelter, veterinary care, and an appropriate environment for the animal's species and needs.

Responsible Pet Ownership Starts with the Right Supplies

Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit, or ferret, being a responsible pet owner means more than understanding the law — it means providing high-quality nutrition, enrichment, and care every day. That's where Ashario Pets comes in.

Ashario Pets is a premium pet supply store located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, open every day of the year from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, including holidays. Serving the North York community since opening, Ashario Pets stocks a wide selection of pet food, treats, supplements, toys, and accessories for dogs and cats — from everyday essentials to specialty nutrition.

As of 2026, Ashario Pets carries 79+ brands of premium pet products, including well-known Canadian brands like Orijen, Acana, Open Farm, Big Country Raw, Carna4, and Go! Solutions, as well as internationally recognized names like Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Stella & Chewy's, The Honest Kitchen, Fromm, Farmina, and ZIWI.

For North York residents who want to explore the full range of dog and cat nutrition options — including raw dog food, dry dog food, air-dried dog food, freeze-dried dog food, and wet cat food — Ashario Pets is the go-to destination on Finch Avenue West.

You can also explore the premium pet food selection online, browse made-in-Canada pet products, or shop via delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, or Fantuan.

Frequently Asked Questions: Legal Pets in Ontario

Are pit bulls legal in North York, Ontario?

No. Ontario's Dog Owners' Liability Act bans pit bulls province-wide. This applies to pit bull terriers, Staffordshire bull terriers, American Staffordshire terriers, American pit bull terriers, and dogs that have a substantial appearance similar to these breeds. The ban has been in effect since 2005 and applies throughout Ontario, including North York and the City of Toronto.

Can I own a sugar glider in Toronto?

Sugar gliders exist in a legal grey area in Toronto. They are not explicitly listed on Toronto's prohibited animals schedule, but they are not fully domesticated animals either. Interpretations can vary, and regulations may change. If you are considering a sugar glider, contact Toronto Animal Services at 416-338-PAWS for the most current clarification before acquiring one.

Are ferrets legal to own in Ontario?

Yes. Domestic ferrets are legal to own in Ontario, including in Toronto. There was a period when Toronto's municipal bylaws had restrictions, but ferrets are now generally permitted as companion animals in North York and the surrounding city. Ensure you are sourcing your ferret responsibly and are prepared to meet all care requirements under Ontario's animal welfare legislation.

What wild animals can I legally keep as pets in Ontario?

Very few. Ontario's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act prohibits private ownership of most wild native species without a special permit. This includes raccoons, squirrels, foxes, skunks, most birds of prey, and native reptiles and amphibians. If you find an injured wild animal, the appropriate response is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, not to keep it as a pet.

Where can I find supplies for my legal pet in North York?

Ashario Pets at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York (M3J 2P7) is open 9 AM to 11 PM every day of the year and carries a full selection of dog and cat food, treats, toys, supplements, and accessories from 79+ premium brands. You can visit in store, order online, or get same-day delivery via Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, or Fantuan. Explore the full product range at ashariopets.ca or contact Ashario Pets directly at +1-647-564-4433.

Final Thoughts for North York Pet Owners

Understanding what pets are legal in Ontario is the foundation of responsible pet ownership. Provincial legislation and Toronto's municipal bylaws together define a clear framework — and while most common companion animals are perfectly legal, exotic species often require careful research before you commit. When in doubt, always verify with Toronto Animal Services or a legal professional.

Once you've confirmed your pet is legally welcome in your North York home, the next step is giving them the best possible care. From premium nutrition to enrichment and health support, Ashario Pets is here to help. Browse dog wellness resources, explore cat wellness resources, or read more on the Ashario Pets blog for expert guidance tailored to Canadian pet owners.

Visit us at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7 — open every day, 9 AM to 11 PM, 365 days a year. Learn more about our commitment to pet care and discover why North York residents trust Ashario Pets for all their pet supply needs.