Emergency Programs

Animal Contact Exhibit Information

Do I need an Animal Contact Exhibit Permit from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture?

In 2005, the North Carolina General Assembly passed G.S. 106-520.3A, also known as Aedin's Law. This law requires a permit from NCDA&CS for all animal contact exhibits at sanctioned agricultural fairs in NC. Examples of animal contact exhibits include, but are not limited to, petting zoos, pony rides, and milking booths. To obtain a permit, exhibits must meet certain requirements as outlined in the NC Administrative Code.

If you will be displaying animals at a venue other than a sanctioned agricultural fair, you do not need a permit from NCDA&CS.

Click here to see a flow chart to help you determine whether or not you need a permit from NCDA&CS

Sanctioned Agricultural Fairs in North Carolina

Only certain fairs in NC meet the requirements for sanctioned agricultural fair status as outlined in the NC Administrative Code. More information on agricultural fairs in NC can be found on the NC Association of Agricultural Fairs website at http://www.ncagfairs.org.

Compendium of Measures to Prevent Disease Transmission Associated with Animals in Public Settings, 2011

This document provides information regarding the display of animals in a public setting and is available through both the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

North Carolina Agricultural Fairs Animal Contact Exhibit

Contact the Emergency Programs Divisions at (919) 807-4300 to request a permit application.

For printable versions of signs required under Aedin's Law as well as sample Do Not Touch signs, please see http://www.ncagr.gov/markets/fairs/fairmanagerinfo.htm#download

If you have questions about animal contact exhibit permits, please call (919) 807-4300.