Exotic Pets: Chino vs Fontana
How do exotic pets rules compare between Chino, CA and Fontana, CA?
Fontana has fewer restrictions than Chino.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
California has one of the most restrictive exotic-pet regimes in the country: Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118 and 14 CCR §671 bar private possession of nearly all non-domesticated mammals (primates, bats, most carnivores other than dogs/cats), most non-domesticated birds, and many reptiles without a Restricted Species Permit from CDFW. Chino does not override this state floor; the Chino municipal code (Title 6 Animals) layers local dangerous-animal and licensing rules on top of state law.
View full Chino rules →Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 671 bans a long list of exotic species statewide, including ferrets, hedgehogs, and most non-native wildlife. Fontana enforces these state rules through Chapter 4 and defers to CDFW permits for allowed species.
View full Fontana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| State prohibition | Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118 + 14 CCR §671 — restricted species list | - |
| Permitting agency | California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) | - |
| Penalty | Misdemeanor, fine up to $10,000, animal forfeiture (Cal. Fish & Game Code §2125) | - |
| Local layer | Chino Mun. Code Title 6 — dangerous-animal and licensing rules | - |
| State Rule | - | CCR Title 14 Section 671 |
| Illegal in CA | - | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders |
| Needs Permit | - | Most native wildlife and big cats |
| Local Code | - | FMC Chapter 4 |
| Animal Services | - | (909) 350-7651 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can I legally own a monkey, fennec fox, or serval in Chino?
No. Primates, foxes, and servals are all on California's restricted species list (14 CCR §671) under Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118. CDFW does not issue Restricted Species Permits for pet ownership. Chino has no authority to grant an exception.
What about ferrets?
Domestic ferrets are restricted under 14 CCR §671 statewide, including in Chino. CDFW does not issue ferret pet permits.
Are common reptiles and parrots legal?
Species not listed in 14 CCR §671 (e.g., ball pythons, leopard geckos, cockatiels, parakeets) are generally lawful in Chino, subject to standard Title 6 humane-care and nuisance rules.
Fontana FAQ
Can I own a pet ferret in Fontana?
No. Ferrets are illegal throughout California. Fontana enforces the state ban.
Are snakes and lizards legal?
Most common non-native reptiles are legal. Native California species usually require a permit.
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