Exotic Pets: Garden Grove vs Santa Ana
How do exotic pets rules compare between Garden Grove, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Garden Grove has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
Garden Grove, CA
Orange County
Garden Grove follows California CDFW regulations for exotic animals. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and most primates are illegal statewide.
View full Garden Grove 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 | Garden Grove | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife | - |
| Prohibited | Ferrets, hedgehogs, primates | - |
| Permits | State-issued only | - |
| Local | Additional zoning restrictions | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for any exotic/wild animal |
| Prohibited Species | - | Primates, large cats, bears, wolves |
| State Law | - | 14 CCR §671 |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5 |
| Enforcement | - | OC Animal Care & CDFW |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garden Grove FAQ
Can I have a ferret in Garden Grove?
No. Ferrets are illegal statewide in California.
What exotic pets are legal?
Check CDFW's restricted species list. Many common exotic pets are prohibited in California.
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 Garden Grove and Santa Ana compare on other ordinance categories.
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