California restricts exotic pets through the Fish & Game Code and CDFW regulations — ferrets and hedgehogs are illegal statewide, and many wild/exotic species are prohibited. These restrictions apply in San Rafael.
San Rafael doesn't need its own exotic-pet ordinance — California's is strict enough. The Fish & Game Code and California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations govern which animals may be kept anywhere in the state, and the prohibited list is long. Ferrets and hedgehogs are illegal statewide, full stop, along with many wild and exotic species. Most common reptiles remain legal without a permit. Since the rules are state-level, they apply identically in every California city; CDFW's restricted-species list is the place to check before acquiring anything unusual.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
San Rafael, CA
§19.20.080(4) prohibits the use of amplified sound in city parks and buildings without a permit. Combined with the citywide §8.13 noise limits, this is the m...
San Rafael, CA
Parking or storing large commercial vehicles in San Rafael residential zones is restricted by zoning, with weight/length thresholds limiting what may be kept...
San Rafael, CA
RV, trailer and boat storage on residential lots in San Rafael is regulated by zoning, which restricts placement and prohibits living in a parked RV. The cit...
San Rafael, CA
Driveway approaches in San Rafael require an encroachment permit and must meet city standards; vehicles generally must be parked on an approved paved surface...
San Rafael, CA
§5.40.040(1) makes it unlawful to repair or wash any motor vehicle on a city street. Routine driveway washing and minor home maintenance are not affected, bu...
San Rafael, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in San Rafael for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California ...
See how San Rafael's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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