Anaheim defers to Orange County and California Department of Fish and Wildlife for exotic pet regulations. Keeping wild, exotic, or dangerous animals requires a county license under OCCO 4-1-94. State permits may also be required.
Orange County Codified Ordinance 4-1-94 prohibits keeping wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animals without a license from the county. AMC 18.38.030 permits animal keeping for domestic noncommercial use only in residential zones. California Fish and Game Code Section 2118 restricts possession of many exotic species without a state permit. Venomous reptiles, large cats, primates, and other inherently dangerous animals are prohibited under state law. Exotic animal keepers must comply with enclosure requirements and ensure animals do not endanger public safety. Orange County Animal Care investigates exotic animal complaints. Animals creating a nuisance may be subject to impoundment regardless of species.
Keeping unpermitted exotic animals: impoundment and citation. County license violation: fine up to $1,000. State permit violations enforced by CDFW.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle exotic pets.
See how Anaheim's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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