Exotic Pets: Menifee vs Temecula

Exotic pet keeping in Menifee is governed primarily by California state law. CCR Title 14 §671 (administered by California Department of Fish and Wildlife) lists restricted species — including most non-native wild mammals, reptiles, and birds — that may not be imported, transported, or possessed without a CDFW permit. Common exotics such as ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, monkeys, and most non-native venomous snakes are prohibited as pets statewide. Menifee defers to state law and Riverside County Department of Animal Services for enforcement; there is no separate local exotic-pet permit beyond zoning use limits.

California Fish & Game Code §2118 and Title 14 CCR §671 prohibit possession of most non-domestic mammals, large reptiles, primates, and certain birds without a special permit. Temecula follows state law — wolves, large cats, primates, venomous reptiles, and many native species are banned. Common pets like ferrets are also illegal in California. Rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, and most aquarium fish are permitted.