Exotic Pets: Carmichael vs Citrus Heights
How do exotic pets rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Citrus Heights, CA?
Carmichael and Citrus Heights have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Sacramento County follows California Fish and Game Code 2118 and Title 14 CCR 671, prohibiting most exotic mammals, reptiles, and birds without a CDFW permit. Local exceptions are narrow.
View full Carmichael rules →Citrus Heights, CA
Sacramento County
California Fish and Game Code §2116-2126 and Title 14 CCR §671 prohibit possession of a broad list of exotic and wild animals statewide, including ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys, large cats, most non-native reptiles, and many bird species. Citrus Heights follows this state framework without additional local permits for restricted species.
View full Citrus Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Citrus Heights |
|---|---|---|
| State law | Title 14 CCR 671 | - |
| Ferrets | Illegal statewide | Illegal statewide |
| Permit | CDFW restricted species only | - |
| Max python | Under length restrictions | - |
| Enforcement | CDFW + County | CDFW + Sac Animal Services |
| Primary Law | - | 14 CCR §671 |
| Hedgehogs | - | Illegal statewide |
| Primates | - | Illegal as pets |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Are ferrets legal in Sacramento County?
No. Ferrets are illegal statewide in California and cannot be kept as pets anywhere in Sacramento County.
Can I keep a hedgehog?
No. Hedgehogs are on the CDFW restricted list and are not permitted as pets in California.
Citrus Heights FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Citrus Heights?
No. Ferrets are prohibited throughout California under 14 CCR §671 with no exception for pet ownership.
Is a bearded dragon legal?
Yes. Bearded dragons and most commonly kept non-venomous reptiles are not on the prohibited list.
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