Columbia Ferrets ordinance (§ 5-30)
Chapter 5: Animals and Fowl · Article II. Administration
In short: Ferrets over four months old must have a rabies shot from a licensed veterinarian within the past twelve months, and owners must show proof when an animal control officer asks. Ferrets are also subject to city licensing, and the dog bite rules in section 5-3 apply if one bites, injures or attacks someone.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to own, or allow to remain on the person's premises, any ferret over four (4) months of age unless the ferret has received a rabies vaccination by a licensed veterinarian within the past twelve (12) months and the person exhibits proof of such vaccination upon the demand of an animal control officer.
(b) The provisions of section 5-3 pertaining to dogs shall apply to any ferret that bites, injures or attacks any person.
(c) The licensing provisions of article III shall apply to ferrets.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 5-30
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.