Controlled alien species

Controlled alien species are animal and aquatic species that are not native to B.C. and are regulated because they may pose risks to public safety, property, wildlife or wildlife habitat.

In most cases, you cannot possess, breed, sell or transport a controlled alien species unless authorized by a permit.

On this page

• List of controlled alien species
• Permitting
• Enforcement

List of controlled alien species

The official list of species designated as controlled alien species is set out in the Controlled Alien Species Regulation. The regulation applies to all subspecies of listed animals and aquatic species, as well as to hybrid species that have a controlled alien species ancestor within the previous four generations.

Species listed in Schedule 1 of the regulation are prohibited and cannot be possessed without a permit.

Species listed in Schedule 2 are reptiles that are restricted while they remain below specific size (length) limits. When they grow beyond those limits, they become prohibited.

Restricted reptiles

Schedule 2 reptile species (listed below) are considered restricted controlled alien species and may be possessed, bred, or transported without a permit while they remain under the length limit shown in the table below. Length is determined by measuring from the front of the reptile’s snout to the tip of its tail while fully extended.  Once a restricted controlled alien species reaches or exceeds the length limit, it becomes prohibited, and a permit is required to possess it.

Restricted reptile species and size limits

Family	Species	Size length limit before permit is required
Boidae (snakes)	Madagascan ground boa (Acrantophis madagascariensis) Boa constrictor (Boa constrictor)	3 metres
Pythonidae (snakes)	Papuan python (Apodora papuana) Black headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus) Woma (Aspidites ramsayi) Australian brown python (Liasis fuscus) Water python (Liasis mackloti) Australian olive python (Liasis olivaceus) Carpet python (Morelia spilota)	3 metres
Varanidae (lizards)	All monitor lizards (family Varanidae), except prohibited Varanidae	2 metres

Permitting

In limited circumstances, permits may be issued to authorize individuals or organizations to possess, breed, ship or transport controlled alien species. The issuance and conditions of permits vary based on the species, activity and type of applicant.

Learn more about possession rules and permitting information for different types of applicants:

• Individual owners
• Pet stores
• Film and entertainment industry
• Zoo or aquarium
• Educational or research institution
• Rescue or holding facility

Enforcement

Under the Wildlife Act, conservation officers and constables have the authority to enforce the Controlled Alien Species Regulation. Enforcement action may be taken where a person fails to obtain a required permit, does not comply with a permit condition, or otherwise contravenes the regulation.

Enforcement actions may include the seizure of a controlled alien species. In limited circumstances, an animal may be destroyed if it presents a significant risk to public safety, property, wildlife or ecosystems.

Failure to comply with the regulation or permit conditions may result in penalties under the Wildlife Act, including fines of up to $250,000, up to two years imprisonment, or both, depending on the offence and circumstances.