California Fish & Game Code §2118 and Title 14 CCR §671 prohibit possession of most exotic animals — including nonhuman primates, big cats, bears, wolves, alligators, and many reptiles — without a specific state permit. Oakland follows state law; no additional local permits issued for wild or dangerous species.
California has one of the strictest exotic-pet regimes in the nation. Fish & Game Code §2118 and CCR Title 14 §671 list detrimental species prohibited from private possession without a CDFW permit — including primates (all species), felids except domestic cat, canids except domestic dog, ursids, most venomous reptiles, alligators/caimans, piranhas, and many others. Ferrets are illegal statewide. Hedgehogs and sugar gliders are also prohibited. Legal exotic pets include most parrots, non-venomous snakes native to the US (with restrictions), bearded dragons, chinchillas, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Oakland Animal Services enforces state restrictions locally and will seize illegal animals. Turtle/tortoise species have species-specific rules.
Illegal exotic pets are seized and transferred to CDFW or licensed sanctuaries. Penalties under F&G §12008 include fines up to $10,000 and misdemeanor charges. Animal abuse in the course of keeping may add charges.
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