Exotic Pets: Concord vs Oakley
How do exotic pets rules compare between Concord, CA and Oakley, CA?
Concord and Oakley have similar restriction levels.
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 →Oakley, CA
Contra Costa County
California maintains one of the nation's strictest exotic pet laws under Fish & Game Code Section 2118 and 14 CCR Section 671, banning ferrets, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and most wild/exotic species. Oakley applies these state rules and adds no additional restrictions for permitted species.
View full Oakley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Concord | Oakley |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State ban statute | - | F&G Code 2118 / 14 CCR 671 |
| Banned common pets | - | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders |
| Permit issuer | - | CDFW |
| Permits for pets | - | Generally not available |
| Penalties | - | Confiscation, fines, misdemeanor |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Oakley FAQ
Are ferrets legal in Oakley?
No. California bans private ferret possession statewide under 14 CCR 671. Neighboring Nevada allows them, but bringing one home to Oakley is illegal.
Can I keep a hedgehog?
No, hedgehogs are on California's restricted species list and cannot be kept as pets statewide.
What about a bearded dragon or ball python?
Yes, most commonly sold reptiles like bearded dragons and ball pythons are legal in California. Verify each specific species against the CCR 671 list before purchase.
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