Keeping venomous snakes as pets

Category 2: dangerous venomous snakes

These are the protected venomous snakes in permit category 2.

CodeScientific nameCommon name
Z2663Suta punctatalittle spotted snake
E2722Suta sutamyall or curl snake
K2653Demansia olivaceaolive whip snake
Y2652Demansia atrablack whip snake
M2654Demansia papuensisPapaun whip snake

These are the prohibited venomous snakes in permit category 2.

CodeScientific nameCommon name
C2693Pseudechis porphyriacusred-bellied black snake

How to get a permit

To get a permit to keep a category 2 venomous snake, you must be 18 years or older.

You must either:

  • complete a recognised venomous snake handler and husbandry training course
  • or supply two written references from people with a current keep permit (category 2 or 3) who can confirm your ability, knowledge and experience in handling venomous snakes.

You must have a minimum 12 months experience in keeping venomous snakes or have held a category 1 keep permit for at least 12 months.

You must have a current first aid certificate that covers treatment for a snake bite.

Allow two weeks to process your permit.

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