Exotic Pets: Antioch vs Brentwood
How do exotic pets rules compare between Antioch, CA and Brentwood, CA?
Antioch and Brentwood have similar restriction levels.
Antioch, CA
Contra Costa County
California has one of the most restrictive exotic pet laws in the U.S. Ferrets, monkeys, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, most venomous reptiles, and large constrictors are all prohibited statewide (CCR Title 14 §671). Antioch defers to state law without additional local exemptions.
View full Antioch rules →Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
California bans most exotic pets statewide under Title 14 CCR §671, which preempts local ordinances. Prohibited species include ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys, large constrictors, and most wild species. Brentwood enforces these state restrictions through Contra Costa Animal Services.
View full Brentwood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Antioch | Brentwood |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Law | CCR Title 14 §671 | - |
| Prohibited | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys | - |
| Permits | Rarely granted (CDFW) | - |
| Legal Reptiles | Bearded dragons, ball pythons, leos | - |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor + confiscation | - |
| State authority | - | 14 CCR §671 |
| Banned | - | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys |
| Permitted | - | Most captive-bred reptiles, small rodents |
| Enforcement | - | CCAS + CDFW |
| Fines | - | $500-$10,000+ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Antioch FAQ
Are ferrets really illegal in California?
Yes. California is one of only two states (with Hawaii) that prohibits ferret ownership. Possession can result in confiscation and fines, with no grandfather exemption for pre-existing pets.
Can I own a snake in Antioch?
Common pet snakes like ball pythons, corn snakes, and king snakes are legal. Large constrictors (reticulated pythons, green anacondas, African rock pythons) and all venomous snakes are prohibited statewide.
Brentwood FAQ
Are ferrets legal in Brentwood?
No. California Title 14 CCR §671 prohibits private ferret ownership statewide. Brentwood cannot override this state ban, and ferrets may be seized by CDFW or Contra Costa Animal Services.
Can I own a sulcata tortoise?
Yes. Most captive-bred tortoises and turtles (except federally protected species) are legal. Check CDFW's restricted species list before acquiring any reptile to confirm current status.
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