Exotic pet ownership in Modesto is primarily governed by California Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW) regulations, which are among the most restrictive in the nation. Most wild, venomous, and non-domesticated animals are prohibited without permits.
California maintains strict exotic animal regulations through the Department of Fish & Wildlife (Title 14, CCR §671). Animals prohibited as pets include all primates, large cats, bears, wolves, venomous reptiles, alligators, and most non-native species. Ferrets are illegal in California. Some reptiles (non-venomous snakes, certain lizards, turtles) and small rodents are permitted. Modesto's municipal code may impose additional restrictions beyond state law. Stanislaus County Animal Services enforces local animal regulations. Exotic animal permits from CDFW are available for educational, scientific, or exhibition purposes but not for general pet ownership.
Illegal exotic animal: confiscation, fines, and possible criminal charges under state law. CDFW penalties can be severe.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Modesto, CA
Modesto's noise ordinance expressly exempts aircraft and railroad operations; aircraft noise around Modesto City-County Airport is governed by federal FAA ru...
Modesto, CA
Modesto's noise ordinance (MMC Title 4, Ch. 9) bans 'loud and raucous noise' citywide, including from industrial operations. Certain continuous industrial ac...
Modesto, CA
Modesto has no blanket overnight parking ban. The default rule is the 72-hour storage limit (sec. 3-2.1002). Residential Parking Permit Zones under Article 1...
Modesto, CA
Modesto zoning permits standard residential fence materials (wood, vinyl, masonry, ornamental metal, chain link). Barbed wire, razor wire and electrified fen...
Modesto, CA
Modesto bans backyard recreational fires outright (wood fire pits, chimineas, bonfires). Portable outdoor fireplaces (gas/propane appliances) are not categor...
Modesto, CA
Modesto sits on the Central Valley floor outside CAL FIRE's State Responsibility Area and is not mapped as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, so the wild...
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