Minnesota Administrative Rules Agency 199 - Zoological Board
Here’s an overview of Minnesota Administrative Rules — Agency 199 (Zoological Board), Chapter 9900 ("Minnesota Zoological Garden"):
📘 Chapter Structure & Scope
Part 9900.0100 – Definitions: Key terms used in the rules (e.g., “zoo premises,” “wildlife”).
Part 9900.0200 – Applicability of Rules: Specifies when the rules apply.
Part 9900.0300 – Repealed: A previously repealed portion.
Admission to Zoo (Parts 9900.0400–.0700): Rules concerning entry—hours, fees, special admissions, and eligibility.
Wildlife & Natural Resources (Parts 9900.1300–.2700): Prohibitions on bringing, possessing, releasing, or disturbing wildlife on zoo property—like Pt. 9900.1800 which makes it unlawful to bring or release any wildlife, including domestic animals, onto zoo grounds (law.cornell.edu, law.cornell.edu).
Food, Beverages & Controlled Substances (Parts 9900.2800–.2900): Regulations limiting what visitors can bring or consume.
Speech & Conduct (Parts 9900.3500–.3800): Governs permitted speech, demonstrations, solicitation, and expression on zoo grounds.
Recreational Activities (Parts 9900.4400–.4600): Rules around permissible activities like biking, skating, photography, etc.
Miscellaneous Prohibited Activities (Parts 9900.5200–.5600): Miscellaneous bans—e.g., feeding animals, littering, tampering with exhibits.
Traffic (Parts 9900.6200–.7000): Vehicle and pedestrian traffic control on zoo premises.
Effect of Rules; Violations; Enforcement (Parts 9900.7600–.8000): Defines penalties, enforcement authority, and rule interpretation.
⚖️ Notable Rules & Enforcement
Wildlife controls: Pt. 9900.1800 explicitly bans bringing, releasing, or abandoning any wildlife, including domestic animals, on zoo grounds (law.cornell.edu).
Conduct and Speech: Specific provisions permit free speech in designated areas while ensuring zoo operations and visitor experience remain protected.
Traffic laws: Cover speed limits, parking, and signage to safeguard both humans and animals.
Violations: Noncompliance may result in warnings, removal, fines, or prohibition from returning.
📌 How to Access & Stay Current
These rules are published by the Revisor of Statutes and mirrored on legal sites such as Justia and Cornell, which reflect quarterly updates . For the most current version:
Visit the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes website.
Navigate: Rules → Agency List → Agency 199 – Zoological Board → Chapter 9900.
Review the State Register entries for any recent amendments.
✅ Summary
Agency 199, Chapter 9900 governs admission, conduct, wildlife protection, recreational use, and enforcement at the Minnesota Zoo.
Key rule: you may not bring or release animals on zoo property.
The rules define permissible behavior—including speech, food, traffic, and penalties for violations.
They are updated quarterly; refer to the Revisor’s site for the latest changes.
RELATED Blog
0 comments