Exotic Pets: Fullerton vs Newport Beach
How do exotic pets rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Newport Beach.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations on exotic animal ownership. Many exotic species require state permits, and some are entirely prohibited. Local nuisance ordinances also apply to exotic pets kept in residential areas.
View full Fullerton rules →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting most exotic pets. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and most wild or non-domesticated animals are illegal to keep as pets under state law, and the city does not grant local exceptions.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, primates | - |
| Allowed | Non-venomous snakes, many lizards | - |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §2118, 14 CCR §671 | CA Code of Regulations Title 14, Sec 671 |
| Animal Control | OC Animal Care — (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Permits | CDFW restricted species permits | - |
| Ferrets | - | Illegal in California |
| Hedgehogs | - | Illegal in California |
| Primates | - | Prohibited as pets |
| OC Animal Care | - | (714) 935-6848 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Fullerton?
No. Ferrets are prohibited throughout California under Fish and Game Code Section 2118 and Title 14 CCR Section 671, regardless of local ordinances.
Are reptiles legal to keep in Fullerton?
Most non-venomous reptiles such as snakes, lizards, and turtles are legal to own in California. Venomous reptiles and large constricting snakes are prohibited.
Can I keep a potbelly pig in Fullerton?
Potbelly pigs may be subject to the city's livestock regulations depending on your zoning district. Contact the Community Development Department at (714) 738-6837 to verify allowability.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Newport Beach?
No. Ferrets are illegal to keep as pets anywhere in California under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 671. Newport Beach does not grant exceptions to this state prohibition.
What exotic pets are legal in Newport Beach?
Most common domesticated pets are legal including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Many non-venomous reptiles like ball pythons and bearded dragons are also legal. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains the full list of restricted species.
Can I have a potbelly pig in Newport Beach?
Potbelly pigs may be restricted in residential zones under Newport Beach zoning regulations. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to determine if pigs are permitted on your property.
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