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Ohio · Petting zoos and animal encounters

Petting zoos and animal encounters in Ohio

The inherent-risk definition names domestic-animal behavior and illness from contact with animals, feed, waste, or contaminated surfaces. It does not specifically name petting zoos.

Source checked August 13, 2026Ohio state lawLocal rules not included
What the cited source says

The inherent-risk definition names domestic-animal behavior and illness from contact with animals, feed, waste, or contaminated surfaces. It does not specifically name petting zoos.

Important conditions

  • Activity eligibility, dangerous-dog and dangerous-condition facts, animal exhibition or health rules, handwashing, licensing, and local requirements.

Relevant provisions

DefinitionThe section defines agritourism as an agriculturally related educational, entertainment, historical, cultural, or recreational activity—including you-pick operations or farm markets—conducted on a qualifying farm that invites the public. Ohio Rev. Code § 901.80(A)(2)-(4)
Inherent risksThe listed risks include land conditions, specified wild and domestic animal behavior, ordinary farm structures or equipment, illness from animal contact or contamination, and participant negligence. § 901.80(A)(6)
Liability ruleThe section states that an agritourism provider is immune for harm resulting from a risk inherent in an agritourism activity. § 901.80(B)
ExceptionsThe section lists willful or wanton disregard, purposeful harm, criminal conduct, failure to post required signs, and certain undisclosed dangerous conditions. § 901.80(C)
Warning signThe provider must post and maintain the statutory warning at or near each entrance or at each activity site, in black letters at least one inch high. § 901.80(D)

What this source does not answer

  • The source does not determine whether a particular parcel meets the statutory farm definition.
  • It does not resolve local zoning, buildings, fire, food, alcohol, accessibility, traffic, permits, insurance, or separate activity statutes.
  • No judicial decisions or fact-specific eligibility were reviewed.

What to check next

  • Animal-health and exhibition rules
  • Handwashing and sanitation
  • Insurance and warning requirements
  • Local permits

Official source

Ohio Revised Code § 901.80 — Immunity from liability for agritourism providers

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Checked August 13, 2026

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