Yucaipa, CA Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

Development Code § 84.0610 governs exotic animals kept at a home in the City of Yucaipa, San Bernardino County, California. The Development Code's definition in § 812.05055 covers any warm or cold-blooded animal of the biological kingdom Animalia considered wild, exotic, dangerous, venomous, or not normally domesticated. Section 84.0510(f)(1) lists exotic animals among the uses for which a Special Use Permit is required as an accessory to a primary residential use.

The process starts with the County Veterinarian. Before giving notice, the reviewing authority asks the County Veterinarian for a statement on the particular animal's mature behavior and personality characteristics. The notice to adjacent property owners must describe the type of animal and its behavior characteristics, so neighbors learn what is proposed before a decision.

Approval of a Special Use Permit does not take effect until the Community Development Director receives written evidence that two permits are in hand: one from the Public Health Department and one from the State Department of Fish and Game. Every approval then carries conditions. Keeping the animal must comply with all City Code requirements, including setbacks from property lines and other dwellings, and with all applicable federal and state requirements. Each exotic animal needs sufficient area to be maintained and exercised in a normal healthy manner, as determined by the County Veterinarian. Each permit specifies its renewal period and inspection requirements.

The numeric cap is two: no more than two exotic animals over the age of six months can be kept as an accessory use to a single dwelling unit, unless a Conditional Use Permit for a menagerie or zoo has been approved. Special Use Permits under the Development Code are renewed annually unless the chapter says otherwise, with Community Development inspecting before each renewal.

One exotic species is barred outright by the Municipal Code. Section 6.08.060 makes it unlawful to trap or capture skunks for pets, or to hold skunks in captivity for sale, barter, exchange or gift, or to transport skunks from or into the city. The health officer can permit import or export only for recognized zoological gardens or research institutions.