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Torrance, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Framework
LA County Title 10
State Law
Fish & Game Code 671
Enforcement
LA County DACC
Contact
(310) 328-5310

Summary

Torrance adopts Los Angeles County Code Title 10 (Animals) as its animal control ordinance, which prohibits keeping wild, exotic, or non-domestic animals without permits. California Fish and Game Code Section 671 also restricts possession of restricted species statewide. LA County DACC enforces animal regulations in Torrance.

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). ... 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.

Source: TMC Ch. 1 Animals and FowlView official code

Full Breakdown

The City of Torrance has adopted the Los Angeles County Code, Title 10, Animals (Sections 10.04.010 through 10.90.010) as the Animal Control Ordinance of the City of Torrance. Under this framework, wild animals are defined as any nondomestic, exotic, or dangerous animal, including wild animal/dog hybrids, mammals, wildfowl, fish, and reptiles not typically kept as household pets. Keeping exotic or wild animals requires appropriate permits from LA County and compliance with California Fish and Game Code Section 671, which restricts importation, transportation, and possession of live restricted animals statewide. The LA County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) provides animal control services for Torrance. Prohibited species include most primates, large cats, bears, wolves, venomous reptiles, and certain other non-domestic species. Torrance Animal Control can be reached at (310) 328-5310 for questions about specific animal species.

Violations & Fines

Misdemeanor. Animal seizure and removal. Fines up to $1,000. State violations under Fish and Game Code carry additional penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep an exotic pet in Torrance?
Generally no. Torrance follows LA County Title 10 which prohibits wild, exotic, or non-domestic animals without permits. California state law (Section 671) also restricts many species.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Torrance

All Torrance rules

California rules heatmap·Compare Torrance to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview

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