Exotic Pets: Antioch vs Concord
How do exotic pets rules compare between Antioch, CA and Concord, CA?
Antioch and Concord 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 →Concord, CA
Contra Costa County
Exotic pets in Concord are governed by California Code of Regulations Title 14 §671, which lists restricted species prohibited as pets without a state permit. Restricted species include many non-native birds, reptiles, and mammals. Concord defers to CDFW for exotic species enforcement and does not issue local exceptions.
View full Concord rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Antioch | Concord |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Primary Rule | - | 14 CCR §671 (restricted species list) |
| Permit Authority | - | California Department of Fish and Wildlife |
| State Statute | - | CA Fish & Game Code §2118 |
| Banned Examples | - | Ferrets, primates, large constrictors |
| Allowed Examples | - | Ball pythons, bearded dragons, hedgehogs |
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.
Concord FAQ
Are ferrets legal in Concord?
No. Ferrets are prohibited as pets statewide under 14 CCR §671. This applies throughout Concord and all of California.
Can I own a ball python?
Yes. Ball pythons and other commonly kept non-native snakes not listed in §671 are legal pets in California.
Who enforces exotic pet rules?
CDFW is the primary enforcement authority. Local Code Enforcement and Animal Services will refer exotic pet violations to state wardens.
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