A man found carrying a snake in a box on a train has prompted a police warning to passengers that pets are not permitted on the Queensland Rail City Network.

The Police Railway Squad intercepted the man and his python on Friday afternoon.

“Although the harmless python was appropriately boxed and the authorised owner was returning from a veterinarian appointment, it is still an offence to travel with an animal on a train,” police said in a statement on Sunday.

The passenger was issued with a warning notice for carrying an animal on a train and permitted to continue his journey supervised by Queensland Rail staff.

The maximum penalty for carrying an animal on a train is $2200.

Police and Queensland Rail have urged rail passengers to to arrange appropriate alternative transport for their pets.

Assistance animals such as guide dogs are exempt from the train ban.