Exotic Pets: Brentwood vs Concord
How do exotic pets rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Concord, CA?
Brentwood and Concord have similar restriction levels.
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 →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 | Brentwood | Concord |
|---|---|---|
| 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+ | - |
| 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.
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.
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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