W. Va. Code § 19-34-4: Prohibition on the possession of a dangerous wild animal; exceptions.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this article, a person may not possess a dangerous wild animal.

(b) Pursuant to the provisions of this article, the board may issue a permit for the possession of a dangerous wild animal if the applicant was in legal possession of the animal prior to the effective date of the rules promulgated under this article.