Exotic Pets: Los Angeles vs West Covina
How do exotic pets rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and West Covina, CA?
West Covina has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
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 →West Covina, CA
Los Angeles County
West Covina regulates exotic and wild animal keeping under Chapter 6 and defers to California Fish and Game Code and Title 14 CCR Section 671 for restricted species. Wild, dangerous, or exotic animals are generally prohibited in residential zones without permits.
View full West Covina rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | West Covina |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| State Law | - | 14 CCR §671 |
| Primates/Big Cats | - | Prohibited |
| Enforcement | - | IVHS + CA Fish & Wildlife |
| Code | - | WCMC Ch. 6, State F&G Code |
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.
West Covina FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in West Covina?
Most exotic animals (primates, large cats, venomous reptiles, wolves) are prohibited under California law (14 CCR §671). Some non-restricted exotic species may be allowed with proper care and no nuisance.
What pets are allowed in West Covina?
Standard domestic animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, pet birds, and fish. The number of dogs and cats may be limited. For unusual species, check with the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Compare other topics
See how Los Angeles and West Covina 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