Mountain View, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- CA Fish and Game Code
- Ferrets
- Illegal statewide
- Big cats
- Prohibited
- Venomous reptiles
- Prohibited
- Enforcement
- SVACA and CDFW
Summary
Mountain View prohibits ownership of wild and exotic animals consistent with California Fish and Game Code, limiting residents to common domestic pets and certain small reptiles.
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. 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.
Full Breakdown
Mountain View follows California Fish and Game Code and Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting ownership of wild and exotic animals without state permits. Prohibited species include big cats, primates, venomous reptiles, large constrictor snakes over specified sizes, wolves, wolf hybrids, alligators, and most native California wildlife. Common domestic pets such as dogs, cats, small rodents, small birds, aquarium fish, and most non-venomous reptiles under a certain size are allowed without restriction. Ferrets remain illegal in California under state law. Any exotic animal requires documentation of a valid state permit upon request by SVACA officers. Violations can result in seizure and criminal charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own a ferret in Mountain View?
Are sugar gliders allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mountain View
California rules heatmap·Compare Mountain View to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle exotic pets.