Exotic Pets: Long Beach vs Los Angeles
How do exotic pets rules compare between Long Beach, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Long Beach and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Exotic pets regulated by state and city. Ferrets and hedgehogs are ILLEGAL in California. CDFW permits required for regulated species. City prohibits dangerous animals.
View full Long Beach rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LAMC 53.38 requires a permit from the Department of Animal Services to keep any wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animal or reptile. Keeping such animals must also conform to zoning regulations under LAMC Article 2, Chapter I. LAMC 53.39.1 separately regulates exhibition of wild or exotic animals in circus or performing animal shows.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Long Beach | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Ferrets | ILLEGAL in California | - |
| Hedgehogs | ILLEGAL in California | - |
| State Law | CA Code of Regs §671 (CDFW) | - |
| Permits | Required for CDFW-regulated species | - |
| Permit Required | - | Dept of Animal Services permit |
| Code Section | - | LAMC 53.38 |
| Zoning | - | Must conform to LAMC Article 2, Ch. I |
| Exhibition | - | Separate permit under LAMC 53.39.1 |
| Fine | - | $250-$1,000 per animal without permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in Long Beach?
Exotic pets regulated by state and city. Ferrets and hedgehogs are ILLEGAL in California. CDFW permits required for regulated species. City prohibits dangerous animals.
What exotic animals are prohibited in Long Beach?
Ferrets: ILLEGAL in California. Hedgehogs: ILLEGAL in California. State Law: CA Code of Regs §671 (CDFW). Permits: Required for CDFW-regulated species.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in LA?
Only with a permit from the Department of Animal Services under LAMC 53.38. You must demonstrate adequate housing, proper zoning, and liability coverage. Some species are prohibited entirely under state and federal law regardless of local permits.
What happens if I'm caught with an unpermitted exotic animal?
You face misdemeanor charges with fines of $250-$1,000 per animal. The Department of Animal Services can seize the animal. You may also face state charges if the animal is a restricted species under California Fish and Game Code.
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