Highland, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Highland Municipal Code § 16.44.130 allows the keeping of exotic animals in only a single-family residential district. It is not a by-right pet rule: the keeping is approved as an accessory use to a primary single-family residence, through the reviewing authority, and the approval carries conditions.

The process starts with a behavior review. Before notice goes out under HMC § 16.08.170, the reviewing authority must ask the county veterinarian for a statement about the particular animal's mature behavior and personality characteristics. The notice sent to adjacent property owners must describe the type of animal and its behavior characteristics, so neighbors see the species and the temperament assessment, not just an application number.

Approval does not take effect on the vote alone. Any action to approve an exotic animal as an accessory use is not effective until the community development director receives written evidence that the applicant has applied for and obtained a permit from the Public Health Department, and a permit from the State Department of Fish and Game, if required.

The approval must also carry four conditions, in addition to any the reviewing authority adds. First, the keeping must comply with all city code requirements, including setbacks from property lines and other dwellings. Second, it must comply with all applicable federal and state requirements. Third, no more than two exotic animals over the age of six months can be kept as an accessory use to a single-family residential use, unless a conditional use permit for a menagerie or zoo has been approved. Fourth, each exotic animal must have sufficient area to be maintained and exercised in a normal health manner, as determined by the county veterinarian.

The section applies through the code's own definition of exotic animals and names no species in its operative text, so the definition decides whether a given animal is covered.