Paramount, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

The City of Paramount, California, regulates exotic animals by listing them and then requiring a permit. Section 6.04.080 defines a wild animal as any wild, exotic, dangerous or non-domestic animal, including but not limited to mammals, fowl, fish or reptiles. Section 6.20.060(A) names elephant, bear, hippopotamus, rhinoceros, lion, tiger, leopard, wolf, monkey, ape, chimpanzee, bobcat, lynx, wildcat, puma and cheetah, plus any poisonous reptile, any animal commonly referred to as a 'wild species', and any animal or reptile known by its keeper to be vicious or dangerous. A keeper cannot allow these animals at large on a public place or on private property outside the keeper's enclosed premises. Section 6.20.050 requires a monkey or ape in public to be securely fastened by an adequate chain or rope held by a competent person.

Keeping one at home requires a permit from the Director under Sections 6.40.010 and 6.40.020, and the animal must be confined so the life, limb or property of any person lawfully entering the premises is not endangered. The written application lists the applicant's name, address, telephone number and interest, the proposed location and its owner, the number and description of the animals, known vicious or dangerous propensities, housing arrangements including safety of structure, locks and fencing, safety precautions, anticipated noises or odors, and prior history of public health and safety incidents. The fee is established by the Director, is payable at filing and is not refundable whether or not a permit issues. Copies go to the law enforcement agency and the Planning Department, and no permit is granted without their reports unless the City Manager/Administrator waives the requirement for good cause. No permit issues without an explicit finding that it is not contrary to the public health, safety and general welfare.

A permit lasts no more than one year, and a renewal application is due not less than 45 days before expiration. The Director can revoke for good cause or suspend without a hearing for not more than 30 days. A denied applicant can appeal to the City Council within 10 days. Exemptions cover transport through the City with notice of the route and time to local law enforcement, and animals confined in a public zoo, museum, circus, carnival, exhibition or show. The R-1, R-2 and R-M zoning chapters separately list wild species and potentially dangerous animals among prohibited household pets.