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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Wildlife Rescue Permits

Anaheim vs Santa Ana

How do wildlife rescue permits rules compare between Anaheim, CA and Santa Ana, CA?

Anaheim and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.

Anaheim, CA

Orange County

Heavy Restrictions

California Fish and Wildlife issues wildlife rehabilitator permits required to possess injured native wildlife in Anaheim, and unpermitted residents must transport injured animals promptly to a licensed rehabber.

View full Anaheim rules β†’

Santa Ana, CA

Orange County

Heavy Restrictions

California Fish and Wildlife requires rehabilitators to hold a state permit before keeping injured native wildlife. Santa Ana residents finding hurt birds or mammals should contact OC Animal Care or a permitted facility rather than attempting to nurse the animal at home.

View full Santa Ana rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactAnaheimSanta Ana
Permit issuerCA Fish & WildlifeCDFW
Citizen care windowTransport within 48 hours-
Authority14 CCR 679-
Local rehabbersOC nonprofit centers-
Regulation-Title 14 CCR 679
Closest center-Wetlands and Wildlife, HB
Citation-Up to 1000 dollars

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Anaheim FAQ

Can I care for a baby squirrel I found?

Only briefly. You must transfer it to a CDFW-permitted wildlife rehabilitator within 48 hours rather than raising it yourself.

Where do I take an injured hawk in Anaheim?

Contact a CDFW-permitted raptor rehabber such as the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach for transport instructions.

Santa Ana FAQ

What if I find a baby bird?

Most fledglings are fine and parents are nearby. If clearly injured, place it in a ventilated box and call OC Animal Care or a permitted rehabber rather than feeding it yourself.

Can I keep a wild animal as a pet?

No. California prohibits possession of native wildlife as pets without a state permit. Many species also fall under federal protections in addition to state restrictions.

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