Compton, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Regulation
- CA Title 14, §671
- Prohibited
- Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys, large snakes
- Max Fine
- Up to $10,000 (state)
- Enforcement
- LA County Animal Care / Compton PD
- Animal Center
- (310) 605-5503
Summary
Exotic pet ownership in Compton is governed by California state law (Title 14, Section 671). Most exotic animals are prohibited statewide. The city enforces state restrictions through its animal control provisions.
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) (PDF).
Entitlements / Fee / Description:
Restricted Species Permit Application/Amendment - New: $155.53; Renewal and Amendment: $80.60 - Required for every new permit, permit renewal or amendment of an existing permit, nonrefundable.
Restricted Species Permit Inspection - 1-5 Enclosures: $319.50; 6-25 Enclosures: $448.00; 26-50 Enclosures: $730.00; 51-100 Enclosures: $1,147.50; 101-500+ Enclosures: $4,234.50; Aquaculture: $2,124.75; ELE/MOU: $619.25 - Required for every new permit or renewal of an existing permit. New and Renewal Inspection Fees Based on Number of Enclosures.
Animal Care (Detrimental Species) - $652.25 - 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. No other activity is authorized except that which is medically necessary for the care of the animal.
Animal Care (Welfare Species) - $79.83 - Issued to any resident who has demonstrated the experience and ability to house an animal designated as a welfare 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.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
California Title 14, Section 671 of the California Code of Regulations prohibits keeping restricted wild animals without a permit from the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Prohibited species include ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, primates, large constrictor snakes, and venomous reptiles. Compton's municipal code reinforces state restrictions. The LA County Department of Animal Care and Control, through the Compton Animal Center, enforces animal regulations. Permitted pets include common domesticated animals and small non-restricted reptiles and amphibians.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a restricted species without a permit is a misdemeanor under state law with fines up to $10,000 and/or six months jail. Animals may be confiscated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a ferret in Compton?
What exotic pets are legal in Compton?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Compton
California rules heatmap·Compare Compton to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Los Angeles County handle exotic pets.