Exotic Pets: El Monte vs Inglewood
How do exotic pets rules compare between El Monte, CA and Inglewood, CA?
El Monte and Inglewood have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
Because El Monte enforces LA County animal regulations by contract, any 'wild animal' — defined broadly to include non-domestic, exotic, or dangerous animals — requires a license from LA County Animal Care & Control before being kept.
View full El Monte rules →Inglewood, CA
Los Angeles County
Inglewood follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations on exotic animal ownership. Most wild, venomous, and large exotic animals are prohibited. Permits may be required for certain species.
View full Inglewood rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Inglewood |
|---|---|---|
| Wild-animal license | Required per LACC §10.28.060 | - |
| State restricted species | Need CDFW permit per F&G §2118 / 14 CCR §671 | - |
| Exempt pets | Canaries, tropical fish, domesticated rodents, etc. | - |
| Ferrets | Banned statewide as restricted species | - |
| Enforcement | LA County DACC + CDFW | - |
| State Law | - | CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife regulations |
| Prohibited | - | Large cats, primates, venomous reptiles |
| Allowed | - | Non-venomous reptiles, small birds, fish |
| Permits | - | Required for certain species |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
Can I keep a ferret, sugar glider, or hedgehog in El Monte?
Ferrets and sugar gliders are restricted species under 14 CCR §671 and cannot be kept as pets in California without a state permit (which is not granted for pet purposes). Hedgehogs are also restricted. CDFW enforces these statewide.
Do I need a permit for a snake or large reptile?
Common pet reptiles (corn snakes, ball pythons, leopard geckos) are exempt. Constrictors over a certain size, venomous snakes, crocodilians and tortoises listed in §671 require a CDFW restricted-species permit, and LA County may require an additional wild-animal license.
What's the penalty for an unlicensed exotic pet?
Misdemeanor under LA County Code §10.40.010 and California Fish & Game Code §2125 — up to $1,000 fine and 6 months in county jail, plus seizure of the animal.
Inglewood FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Inglewood?
It depends on the species. California law prohibits most wild and venomous animals. Common exotic pets like non-venomous reptiles and small birds are generally allowed.
Do I need a permit for a pet snake in Inglewood?
Non-venomous snakes are generally allowed without special permits. Venomous snakes are prohibited under California state law.
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