Exotic Pets: Compton vs Santa Monica
How do exotic pets rules compare between Compton, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Compton and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Exotic pet ownership in Compton is governed by California state law (Title 14, Section 671). Most exotic animals are prohibited statewide. The city enforces state restrictions through its animal control provisions.
View full Compton rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.04.162 prohibits wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys without a permit from the Animal Control Officer. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are banned from City parks, beaches, the Pier, and the Third Street Promenade.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Compton | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| State Regulation | CA Title 14, §671 | - |
| Prohibited | Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys, large snakes | - |
| Max Fine | Up to $10,000 (state) | - |
| Enforcement | LA County Animal Care / Compton PD | - |
| Animal Center | (310) 605-5503 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Wild animals, reptiles, monkeys |
| Banned in Parks | - | Snakes, primates, arachnids |
| Exemptions | - | Events, film permits, wildlife |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.04.162 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Compton FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Compton?
No. Ferrets are prohibited throughout California under Title 14, Section 671. No local exemption exists.
What exotic pets are legal in Compton?
Most exotic animals are prohibited by state law. Small non-venomous reptiles, certain amphibians, and invertebrates not on the restricted species list may be kept.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Santa Monica?
Wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys require a permit from the Animal Control Officer. Most exotic species are also restricted under California law (14 CCR §671). Standard domestic pets are allowed.
Can I bring my pet snake to the beach in Santa Monica?
No. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are prohibited from City parks, beaches, the Pier, Ocean Front Walk, and the Third Street Promenade under Section 4.04.162.
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