Exotic Pets: Fillmore vs Moorpark
How do exotic pets rules compare between Fillmore, CA and Moorpark, CA?
Fillmore and Moorpark have similar restriction levels.
Fillmore, CA
Ventura County
Exotic animals are regulated by CA Fish & Game Code and CDFW. Ferrets and hedgehogs are illegal statewide under CA Code of Regulations §671. Ventura County Animal Services enforces.
View full Fillmore rules →Moorpark, CA
Ventura County
Moorpark regulates wild and exotic animals under MMC Chapter 6.24. Keeping wild animals requires a license from the city. The license application process includes confinement regulations and notice-of-escape requirements. California state law further restricts which exotic species may be kept as pets. Moorpark College's Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional permits.
View full Moorpark rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fillmore | Moorpark |
|---|---|---|
| Ferrets | Illegal statewide (CA Code Regs §671) | - |
| Hedgehogs | Illegal statewide | - |
| Most Reptiles | Legal without permit | - |
| Enforcement | Ventura County Animal Services / CDFW | - |
| License Required | - | Yes, for wild/exotic animals |
| State Restrictions | - | CA Fish & Wildlife regulations apply |
| Escape Notification | - | Immediate notice required |
| License Revocation | - | §6.24.070 |
| Code Section | - | MMC Chapter 6.24 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fillmore FAQ
What exotic pets are legal in Fillmore?
California bans ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, most primates, and many other exotic species statewide. Legal exotics include most reptiles, birds not protected by state law, and certain small mammals. Check with CDFW at (916) 653-7664.
Can I keep livestock on my Fillmore property?
On agricultural-zoned properties, livestock including horses, goats, and sheep are generally permitted. Standard residential zones have restrictions. Contact Community Development at (805) 524-1500 ext 234.
What happens if my exotic pet escapes?
You are liable for all capture and containment costs. Contact Ventura County Animal Services at (805) 388-4341 immediately. Prohibited species will be confiscated with additional fines.
Moorpark FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Moorpark?
You need a city license under Chapter 6.24 for wild or exotic animals. Additionally, California state law prohibits many species including ferrets, most primates, and certain reptiles regardless of local licensing.
Does the Moorpark College Zoo affect local exotic pet rules?
No. The Moorpark College Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional and state permits. Residential exotic pet keeping is governed by Chapter 6.24 and state Fish and Wildlife regulations.
What happens if my exotic animal escapes in Moorpark?
Section 6.24.090 requires immediate notification to animal control. Failure to report an escape is a separate violation. The city may impound the animal and revoke your license.
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