Huntington Beach, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- CA Fish & Game Code + Title 14 CCR
- Prohibited
- Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, large cats
- Permits
- Limited, educational/scientific only
- Penalty
- Up to $10,000 fines
Summary
California has strict exotic animal laws enforced by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. Many species are prohibited as pets, and permits are required for others.
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
California Fish and Game Code and Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations restrict exotic animal ownership. Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and many other species are illegal as pets in California. Venomous reptiles, large cats, primates, and bears are prohibited. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife issues limited permits for educational or scientific purposes. Huntington Beach follows state law and may have additional restrictions under its animal control ordinance. Common pets like dogs, cats, and certain birds and reptiles are allowed.
Violations & Fines
Keeping prohibited animals may result in fines up to $10,000, animal confiscation, and criminal misdemeanor charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exotic pets are legal in Huntington Beach?
Can I own a hedgehog in Huntington Beach?
Where do I report an escaped exotic animal in Huntington Beach?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Huntington Beach
California rules heatmap·Compare Huntington Beach 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.