36-01-31. Venomous reptiles - Possession - Permit - Penalty

36-01-31. Venomous reptiles - Possession - Permit - Penalty 1. Except in accordance with the terms of a permit issued under subsection 2, a person may not possess a live venomous reptile, as defined by the state veterinarian. 2. The state veterinarian may issue a permit for the possession of a live venomous reptile only if, in the determination of the state veterinarian, the applicant seeking the permit demonstrates an educational purpose for and the ability to appropriately house, feed, care for, handle, and if necessary dispose of the reptile. For purposes of this subsection, an educational purpose includes research, and displays at schools, institutions of higher education, wildlife preserves, and zoos. The state veterinarian may establish the length of time for which each permit is valid. 3. A person may not release in this state any reptile whose possession is prohibited by this section. 4. A person who violates this section is guilty of a class B misdemeanor.