Legislation on what pets you can and can’t own are provincial jurisdiction. Alberta has an regularly updated list of animals that are restricted or controlled.
Are Ball Pythons Legal in Alberta?
Yes, ball pythons are perfectly legal to own as pets in Alberta.
They are not listed as one of Alberta’s Controlled Animals.
You can view the entire Alberta Controlled Animals List here.
If you open up that document, you will need to scroll down to ”Part 3 Reptiles (Class Reptilia). Then scroll a little further to find a list of snakes. Pythons are in the family of Pythonidae.
Ball Pythons are not listed in this section, but several other types of python are.
Python types that are listed as controlled in Alberta include: Amethystine, Burmese/Indian Rock, Oenpelli, Reticulated, and African Rock Pythons.
There are also Ball Python social media groups in Alberta you can join. Such as this “Alberta Ball Pythons” Facebook Group.
See our list of other exotic pets that you can own as a pet in Alberta called What Exotic Pets Can You Legally Own in Alberta?
In Summary
- Legality of types of pets you can own is a provincial matter. The laws may be different in other provinces.
- Municipalities can also have additional bylaws and restrictions above what is discussed here.
- Ball Pythons are legal to own as pets in Alberta. They are not listed as a controlled animal.
- Some other types of python are listed as controlled.
