San Bernardino County, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Under Development Code Section 84.04.040, the keeping of exotic animals in unincorporated San Bernardino County is allowed only as an accessory use to a single-family dwelling unit and requires a Special Use Permit (Chapter 85.14). Before notifying neighbors, the review authority must obtain a statement from the County Veterinarian on the particular animal's mature behavior and personality characteristics, and the neighbor notice must describe the animal type and its behavior. The Special Use Permit does not take effect until Code Enforcement receives written evidence that the applicant has obtained both a permit from the County Public Health Department and a permit from the State Department of Fish and Game. No more than two exotic animals over the age of six months may be kept as an accessory use to a single dwelling unit unless a Conditional Use Permit for a menagerie or zoo has been approved (Chapter 85.06). Each exotic animal must have sufficient area to be maintained and exercised in a normal, healthy manner as determined by the County Veterinarian, must comply with all County Code requirements (including the 84.04.090(b) setbacks), and must meet all applicable federal and state requirements. Many exotic and wild species are independently banned or restricted as 'restricted species' under California Fish and Game Code and Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, which the county permit cannot override.