Public Reptile Exhibition on a State level (NY)

Im interested in using my private collection of reptiles only to visit local schools, clubs, boy scouts, church groups, or anyone who will have me.
This idea is for ZERO profit and is based on the idea of education and exhibition. Id include animals like a large red tail boa, snapping turtle, american alligator, and others.

My question is for those who have done this or have knowledge of it. What insurance, permits (federal, state, and local level), requirements, or anything would be needed to do this legitimately.

So far what i know is that the USDA wants nothing to do with reptiles though i was told by the NY DEC that insurance was needed through them.
The regional office for fish and wildlife will be getting back to be tomorrow about some things but it seems to be a huge gray area.

suggestions or experience? Thank you everyone _Jake
(if there is a better home for this thread let me know!)

I haven't dealt with the permit system in NY since the new law went into effect a few years ago, but my understanding is that it is nearly impossible to get permits for any "dangerous animal". I tried to go to the Special Licenses office with some questions back in 06, and I wasn't allowed upstairs (I got stopped in the lobby, and, upon hearing what office I wanted to visit, was told that the only way I could go there was to call and set up an appointment).
While the alligator would fall under the Endangered Species permit - or did when I had mine - it was referenced in the "new" law, so that may trump the old system.
Good luck with the permits, and your endeavor

This is what ive heard as well, but im trying to go into this well prepared.
Im being put in contact with someone in the fish and wildlife department in Florida, because i was made aware there is a "large reptile" handling course there that is quick and inexpensive(?). Though maybe not recognized by NY it can help my rep. Also i plan to both email and snail mail letters tomorrow to every address i can find (USDA, DEC, F+W, even health department and more), and in this their response will either be what i have to do or proof that they do not have a governing hand in it at all. I have support of local pet shops and animal handlers that will attest to my experience and plan to talk to administrators of schools, and clubs to drum up a support on paper. The head reptile keeper at buffalo zoo gave me contact info for the vet they use so i can have any animal checked on shipping in or as back up. Even the federal resale and basic info of out of state breeders of the animals i want to add. I figure i can make anyone look bad for even trying to stop a healthy learning experience or a public service that is asked for. And for some reason if there is no interest after looking for a venue then ill drop it. Still have to order in the state law book on reptiles and talk to the insurance company for umbrella coverage though.

If you have any other ideas, or experience ... im all ears!! My list of numbers and names is growing by the day.

I know a few people who do educational and Birthday type things like you are inquiring about and I know you will need insurance. If not to cover you own butt if one of your critters bites little Susie. I'll see if I can't get one of the to post or at least I'll try and see what information I can get. I can only guess though things will differ by state and even by city.

Dand.. i take it your from Ohio? Even if it is a different state if there are any federal entities that i should be aware of. Anything helps, i have a thrifty mind. I believe if im permitted at a state level that should trump city law and id think the same way with federal over state. But to be sure im trying to cover all my bases at any cost. Thanks for chimin' in!

VnV Nation said:

Dand.. i take it your from Ohio? Even if it is a different state if there are any federal entities that i should be aware of. Anything helps, i have a thrifty mind. I believe if im permitted at a state level that should trump city law and id think the same way with federal over state. But to be sure im trying to cover all my bases at any cost. Thanks for chimin' in!

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Yes, I'm from Ohio. Actually I believe the City could trump the State (i.e venomous is allowed in the State but certain Cities disallow them). But as you said you are trying to cover your bases and what goes on in one State may not go on in another. Either way, I'll inquire and get back with any information I can come up with.

DAND said:

Yes, I'm from Ohio. Actually I believe the City could trump the State (i.e venomous is allowed in the State but certain Cities disallow them). But as you said you are trying to cover your bases and what goes on in one State may not go on in another. Either way, I'll inquire and get back with any information I can come up with.

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Thanks! Im excited for any new info.