Exotic Pets: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do exotic pets rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Midway City, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting most exotic animals as pets. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and certain reptiles are restricted or banned under state law. OC Animal Care enforces animal regulations in the city.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Midway City, CA
Orange County
OCCO Section 4-1-94 requires a license from the OC Animal Care Director to keep any wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animal in unincorporated Orange County. Ferrets are illegal statewide in California. Keeping exotic animals must also conform to county zoning regulations.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §671 | - |
| Banned Animals | Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys | - |
| Reptiles | Non-venomous generally allowed | - |
| Enforcement | OC Animal Care (714) 935-6848 | OC Animal Care |
| Permits | CDFW — not for personal pets | - |
| Code Section | - | OCCO §4-1-94 |
| License Required | - | Director approval needed |
| Ferrets | - | Illegal statewide (CA) |
| Zoning Compliance | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Costa Mesa?
No. Ferrets are prohibited as pets throughout California under Fish and Game Code Title 14 Section 671. This applies to Costa Mesa as well.
Are pet snakes legal in Costa Mesa?
Non-venomous snakes are generally legal. Venomous reptiles and large constrictors above certain sizes are prohibited under California state law.
Where do I report an illegal exotic animal in Costa Mesa?
Contact OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 to report suspected illegal exotic animals. They handle enforcement in Costa Mesa.
Midway City FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in unincorporated Orange County?
You must obtain a license from the OC Animal Care Director under OCCO Section 4-1-94. The animal must also be legal under California state law and your property must be appropriately zoned.
Are ferrets legal in Orange County?
No. Ferrets are illegal throughout California under Fish and Game Code Section 2118. This applies to all of Orange County regardless of local ordinances. Ferrets may be confiscated by state wildlife authorities.
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