Richmond, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

California has one of the strictest exotic animal laws in the United States. CA Fish & Game Code §2118 and Title 14 CCR §671 (the "Restricted Species List") prohibit private ownership of a wide range of animals classified as a threat to native wildlife, agriculture, public health, or animal welfare. Prohibited pets include: all non-human primates (monkeys, apes, lemurs), ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, most constrictor snakes over 8 feet, all venomous reptiles, big cats (lions, tigers, leopards, servals, cougars), wolves and wolf-dog hybrids, bears, alligators/crocodiles, and many bird species. Permitted exotic pets generally include: hamsters, guinea pigs, domestic rabbits, gerbils, most parrot species, non-venomous colubrid snakes, bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and chinchillas. Richmond and Contra Costa County enforce state law locally; animals kept illegally are subject to seizure by CDFW wardens or animal services. Penalties range from infraction to misdemeanor charges under FGC §12000+ with fines up to $10,000 and possible jail time. Permits exist for educational, exhibition, or research use but not for private pets.