Costa Mesa, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- CA Fish & Game Code §671
- Banned Animals
- Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys
- Reptiles
- Non-venomous generally allowed
- Enforcement
- OC Animal Care (714) 935-6848
- Permits
- CDFW, not for personal pets
Summary
Costa Mesa follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting most exotic animals as pets. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and certain reptiles are restricted or banned under state law. OC Animal Care enforces animal regulations in the city.
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 Speci
Full Breakdown
Costa Mesa follows California Fish and Game Code Title 14 Section 671 which prohibits keeping most exotic animals as pets without a special permit. Banned animals include ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys, venomous reptiles, and large constrictors over a certain size. Potbelly pigs may be allowed in some circumstances but are subject to livestock regulations. Non-venomous reptiles, fish, certain amphibians, and small birds are generally permitted. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife issues restricted species permits for educational, scientific, or rehabilitation purposes only, not for personal pet ownership. OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 handles exotic pet complaints and enforcement in Costa Mesa. Illegal exotic pets may be confiscated. Residents should verify any unusual pet's legality before acquisition.
Violations & Fines
Keeping prohibited exotic animals violates California Fish and Game Code. Animals may be confiscated by OC Animal Care. Violations may result in fines and misdemeanor charges under state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a ferret in Costa Mesa?
Are pet snakes legal in Costa Mesa?
Where do I report an illegal exotic animal in Costa Mesa?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Costa Mesa
California rules heatmap·Compare Costa Mesa to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle exotic pets.