KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) – Knoxville City Council has approved the first reading of an ordinance that would add monkeys to the city’s existing limits on pet ownership within city limits.
The measure passed on a 7-1 vote during Tuesday’s council meeting and is now headed to a second reading before it can become law.
Under current Knoxville regulations, residents are generally prohibited from owning more than four dogs or cats unless they obtain a permit. The proposed ordinance would expand that restriction to include monkeys, placing them under the same numerical limits as cats and dogs.
City leaders said the proposal is intended to address concerns related to public health, animal welfare and noise associated with keeping multiple exotic animals in residential areas.
Supporters of the ordinance argued that the change would provide clearer guidance for animal ownership within city limits and help city officials address complaints involving non-traditional pets.
The ordinance does not immediately change city law. Because the proposal was approved on first reading, it must return to City Council for a second vote before it takes effect.
Council members are expected to revisit the measure in approximately two weeks.
If approved on second reading, monkeys would officially be included under Knoxville’s animal ownership limits, requiring residents who exceed those limits to obtain the appropriate permits or comply with city regulations.
No additional amendments to the proposal were announced during Tuesday’s meeting.
