Exotic Pets: Bakersfield vs Ridgecrest
How do exotic pets rules compare between Bakersfield, CA and Ridgecrest, CA?
Bakersfield and Ridgecrest have similar restriction levels.
Bakersfield, CA
Kern County
Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 6 prohibits keeping wild or exotic animals as pets within city limits, deferring to California Fish and Game restricted species rules under Title 14 CCR Section 671.
View full Bakersfield rules →Ridgecrest, CA
Kern County
Exotic pets in Ridgecrest are regulated by California state law (CA Code of Regulations §671). Ferrets, hedgehogs, and many wild animals are illegal to own in California.
View full Ridgecrest rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bakersfield | Ridgecrest |
|---|---|---|
| Code chapter | Bakersfield Municipal Code Ch. 6 | - |
| State list | Title 14 CCR Section 671 | - |
| Enforcement | Bakersfield Animal Care | - |
| Hedgehogs | Banned statewide | Illegal in California |
| Ferrets | - | Illegal to own in California — CA Code Regs §671 |
| Most reptiles | - | Legal without a state permit |
| Wild/native animals | - | Cannot be kept as pets — CDFW regulations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bakersfield FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Bakersfield?
No. California is one of two states banning domestic ferrets statewide regardless of city policy. The ban is enforced by Fish and Wildlife and applies in Bakersfield.
Are sugar gliders allowed?
Sugar gliders are restricted under California Title 14 CCR Section 671 without a special permit, so they are effectively banned for typical Bakersfield households.
Ridgecrest FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Ridgecrest?
Exotic pets in Ridgecrest are regulated by California state law (CA Code of Regulations §671). Ferrets, hedgehogs, and many wild animals are illegal to own in California.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Ridgecrest?
Ferrets: Illegal to own in California — CA Code Regs §671. Hedgehogs: Illegal in California. Most reptiles: Legal without a state permit. Wild/native animals: Cannot be kept as pets — CDFW regulations.
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