Moorpark, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- License Required
- Yes, for wild/exotic animals
- State Restrictions
- CA Fish & Wildlife regulations apply
- Escape Notification
- Immediate notice required
- License Revocation
- §6.24.070
- Code Section
- MMC Chapter 6.24
Summary
Moorpark regulates wild and exotic animals under MMC Chapter 6.24. Keeping wild animals requires a license from the city. The license application process includes confinement regulations and notice-of-escape requirements. California state law further restricts which exotic species may be kept as pets. Moorpark College's Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional 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). ... Animal Care (Detrimental Species) $652.25 — Issued to any resident who has demonstrated the experience and ability to house animals designated as a detrimental species, and who legally possessed the animal in California prior to January 1992. The permittee may only possess and provide care for the animal(s) specifically listed on their Department approved permit inventory. No other activity is authorized except that which is medically necessary for the care of the animal.
Full Breakdown
MMC Chapter 6.24 (Wild Animals) establishes a licensing framework for keeping wild or exotic animals. Section 6.24.020 sets forth prohibitions on keeping certain wild animals without a license. Section 6.24.030 outlines license requirements, and §6.24.040 covers the application process. The license fee is established under §6.24.050 with annual renewal under §6.24.060. Confinement regulations under §6.24.080 specify enclosure requirements. Section 6.24.090 requires immediate notice to animal control if a wild animal escapes. The city may revoke a license under §6.24.070 for violations. California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations additionally restrict which species may be possessed, with ferrets, most primates, and many reptile species prohibited statewide. Moorpark College's Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional and state permits and is not governed by the residential animal code.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a wild animal without a city license is a violation of Chapter 6.24. Failure to report an escape violates §6.24.090. The city may impound unlicensed wild animals under §6.24.100. Contact Animal Control at (805) 517-6267 for licensing and wildlife questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an exotic pet in Moorpark?
Does the Moorpark College Zoo affect local exotic pet rules?
What happens if my exotic animal escapes in Moorpark?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Moorpark
California rules heatmap·Compare Moorpark to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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How other cities in Ventura County handle exotic pets.