Galt, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Rule
- CCR Title 14 Section 671
- Ferrets
- Illegal without permit
- Big Cats/Primates
- Prohibited as pets
- Livestock
- Allowed on proper zoning
- Agency
- CDFW enforcement
Summary
California generally prohibits possession of wild and exotic animals such as large cats, primates, ferrets, venomous reptiles, and many parrots without a CDFW permit. Galt defers to state law and does not issue local exotic animal permits.
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.
Full Breakdown
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) maintains one of the most restrictive exotic pet regimes in the United States under California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 671. Restricted species include, without limitation, large cats (lions, tigers, ocelots), bears, non-human primates, wolves and wolf hybrids (in most cases), ferrets, many turtles (including red-eared sliders in some contexts), Quaker parrots, venomous reptiles, and many amphibians. Possession generally requires a CDFW permit tied to a qualifying purpose (research, exhibition, education), which is rarely issued to hobbyists.
The City of Galt defers to state law and does not maintain a separate local exotic pet permit. Common domestic pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, domestic rodents, most cage birds such as parakeets and cockatiels) are allowed subject to general animal rules. Agricultural livestock (cattle, sheep, goats, horses, pigs, poultry) are allowed on properly zoned parcels, which is common around Galt given the surrounding agricultural land uses. Illegal exotic pets can be seized by CDFW or Galt Police Animal Services and the owner fined.
Violations & Fines
CDFW fines can exceed 1,000 dollars per violation plus confiscation of the animal. Additional misdemeanor prosecution is possible under California Fish and Game Code 2118.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a ferret in Galt?
Is a goat considered an exotic pet?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Galt
California rules heatmap·Compare Galt to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Sacramento County handle exotic pets.