Exotic Pets: Fullerton vs Santa Ana
How do exotic pets rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
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 →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 | Fullerton | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Prohibited | Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, primates | - |
| Allowed | Non-venomous snakes, many lizards | - |
| State Law | CA Fish & Game Code §2118, 14 CCR §671 | 14 CCR §671 |
| Animal Control | OC Animal Care — (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Permits | CDFW restricted species permits | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for any exotic/wild animal |
| Prohibited Species | - | Primates, large cats, bears, wolves |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5 |
| Enforcement | - | OC Animal Care & CDFW |
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.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Fullerton and Santa Ana compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool