Exotic Pets: Costa Mesa vs Santa Ana
How do exotic pets rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana restricts the keeping of wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animals under SAMC Chapter 5. Permits are required for any exotic or wild animal, and many species are prohibited outright under both city and California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §671 | 14 CCR §671 |
| Banned Animals | Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys | - |
| Reptiles | Non-venomous generally allowed | - |
| Enforcement | OC Animal Care (714) 935-6848 | OC Animal Care & CDFW |
| Permits | CDFW — not for personal pets | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for any exotic/wild animal |
| Prohibited Species | - | Primates, large cats, bears, wolves |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5 |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I keep a pet monkey in Santa Ana?
No. Primates are prohibited as pets under California law (14 CCR §671). Private ownership permits are generally not issued.
What exotic pets are allowed in Santa Ana?
Animals not listed as restricted under California law may be kept with proper permits. Common allowed exotics include certain reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. Check with OC Animal Care for specific species.
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