Antioch, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Law
- CCR Title 14 §671
- Prohibited
- Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys
- Permits
- Rarely granted (CDFW)
- Legal Reptiles
- Bearded dragons, ball pythons, leos
- Penalty
- Misdemeanor + confiscation
Summary
California has one of the most restrictive exotic pet laws in the U.S. Ferrets, monkeys, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, most venomous reptiles, and large constrictors are all prohibited statewide (CCR Title 14 §671). Antioch defers to state law without additional local exemptions.
Restricted Species Permits are required for every person who imports, exports, transports, or possesses any restricted animal listed in Section 671(c), Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR). [...] Animal Care (Detrimental Species): Issued to any resident who has demonstrated the experience and ability to house animals designated as a detrimental species, and who legally possessed the animal in California prior to January 1992. The permittee may only possess and provide care for the animal(s) specifically listed on their Department approved permit inventory.
Full Breakdown
California Code of Regulations Title 14 §671 lists species restricted or prohibited as pets statewide, and the list is considerably more restrictive than most states. Prohibited pets include: ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, most primates, most wild canines (fox, coyote), large constrictors (anacondas, reticulated pythons), all venomous reptiles, quaker parakeets (monk parrots), and many others. Permits from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife are required for any non-standard pet and are rarely granted for pet-only purposes (typically only for scientific, educational, or exhibition use). Antioch Municipal Code follows state law without granting additional exemptions. Some commonly owned reptiles like bearded dragons, ball pythons, and leopard geckos are legal. Possession of prohibited species can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, and animal confiscation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ferrets really illegal in California?
Can I own a snake in Antioch?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Antioch
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle exotic pets.