Newport Beach, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- CA Code of Regulations Title 14, Sec 671
- Ferrets
- Illegal in California
- Hedgehogs
- Illegal in California
- Primates
- Prohibited as pets
- OC Animal Care
- (714) 935-6848
Summary
Newport Beach follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting most exotic pets. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and most wild or non-domesticated animals are illegal to keep as pets under state law, and the city does not grant local exceptions.
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. No other activity is authorized except that which is medically necessary for the care of the animal.
Full Breakdown
Newport Beach defers to California state law regarding exotic pet ownership. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) prohibits keeping many exotic animals as pets under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 671. Prohibited species include ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys and other primates, most wild cats, venomous reptiles, alligators, and certain species of snakes. Some animals require special permits from CDFW, which are typically issued only for educational, scientific, or exhibition purposes rather than personal pet ownership. Domesticated animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and common aquarium fish are permitted. Non-venomous reptiles such as corn snakes, ball pythons, bearded dragons, and certain turtle species are generally legal. Potbelly pigs may be prohibited or restricted in residential zones under local zoning regulations. The city enforces prohibitions on exotic pets through Code Enforcement and OC Animal Care. Illegally kept exotic animals may be confiscated by wildlife authorities.
Violations & Fines
Keeping prohibited exotic animals can result in misdemeanor charges under state law, confiscation of the animal, and fines. Contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 or CDFW at (858) 467-4201 for the South Coast Region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a ferret in Newport Beach?
What exotic pets are legal in Newport Beach?
Can I have a potbelly pig in Newport Beach?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Newport Beach
California rules heatmap·Compare Newport 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.