Amador County, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Amador County Code Section 8.04.200 (Title 8) provides a detailed definition of 'wild animal.' It includes Order Carnivora other than the domestic dog and cat, such as the family Felidae (ocelots, margays, tigers, jaguars, leopards, cougars) and the family Canidae (wolves, dingos, coyotes, jackals); marsupials such as kangaroos and opossums; bats (Chiroptera); sloths, anteaters, armadillos (Edentata); elephants; primates including monkeys, chimpanzees, and gorillas; and non-domestic hoofed animals such as antelope, deer, and bison. Among reptiles it includes snakes over eight feet, and alligators/caimans/crocodiles and most large lizards over three feet (iguanas excepted). It also includes certain raptors (hawks, eagles, vultures not held under permit), any nondomestic species kept so as to create a likelihood of danger, any species venomous to humans 'except honey-producing bees,' and rabies-capable wild hybrids for which no recognized rabies prophylaxis exists. Because the general provisions (Section 8.08.030) regulate owners of 'any animal, wild or domestic,' wild-animal owners must prevent at-large running, trespass, and nuisance, and provide proper care (8.08.040). Separately, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife restricts and permits many exotic species statewide; possession of restricted species without a state permit is unlawful regardless of county rules. Verify both county and state requirements before acquiring any exotic animal.