Exotic Pets: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do exotic pets rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.04.162 prohibits wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys without a permit from the Animal Control Officer. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are banned from City parks, beaches, the Pier, and the Third Street Promenade.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Dept of Animal Services permit | Wild animals, reptiles, monkeys |
| 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 | - |
| Banned in Parks | - | Snakes, primates, arachnids |
| Exemptions | - | Events, film permits, wildlife |
| Code | - | SMMC §4.04.162 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Santa Monica?
Wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys require a permit from the Animal Control Officer. Most exotic species are also restricted under California law (14 CCR §671). Standard domestic pets are allowed.
Can I bring my pet snake to the beach in Santa Monica?
No. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are prohibited from City parks, beaches, the Pier, Ocean Front Walk, and the Third Street Promenade under Section 4.04.162.
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