Exotic Pets: Moorpark vs Santa Paula
How do exotic pets rules compare between Moorpark, CA and Santa Paula, CA?
Santa Paula has fewer restrictions than Moorpark.
Moorpark, CA
Ventura County
Moorpark regulates wild and exotic animals under MMC Chapter 6.24. Keeping wild animals requires a license from the city. The license application process includes confinement regulations and notice-of-escape requirements. California state law further restricts which exotic species may be kept as pets. Moorpark College's Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional permits.
View full Moorpark rules →Santa Paula, CA
Ventura County
Santa Paula follows California Department of Fish & Wildlife regulations on exotic pets. Ferrets are illegal statewide. Venomous reptiles, primates, and large cats are prohibited. Potbelly pigs may be allowed on larger lots with a conditional use permit.
View full Santa Paula rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Moorpark | Santa Paula |
|---|---|---|
| License Required | Yes, for wild/exotic animals | - |
| State Restrictions | CA Fish & Wildlife regulations apply | - |
| Escape Notification | Immediate notice required | - |
| License Revocation | §6.24.070 | - |
| Code Section | MMC Chapter 6.24 | - |
| Ferrets | - | Illegal in California |
| Venomous Reptiles | - | Prohibited |
| Non-Venomous Reptiles | - | Allowed with containment |
| Potbelly Pigs | - | CUP required, 20,000+ sq ft |
| State Law | - | CA Fish & Game Code §2118 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Moorpark FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Moorpark?
You need a city license under Chapter 6.24 for wild or exotic animals. Additionally, California state law prohibits many species including ferrets, most primates, and certain reptiles regardless of local licensing.
Does the Moorpark College Zoo affect local exotic pet rules?
No. The Moorpark College Teaching Zoo operates under separate institutional and state permits. Residential exotic pet keeping is governed by Chapter 6.24 and state Fish and Wildlife regulations.
What happens if my exotic animal escapes in Moorpark?
Section 6.24.090 requires immediate notification to animal control. Failure to report an escape is a separate violation. The city may impound the animal and revoke your license.
Santa Paula FAQ
Can I have a ferret in Santa Paula?
No, ferrets are illegal as pets throughout California under Fish & Game Code §2118. This is a statewide ban, not just local.
Can I keep a pet snake in Santa Paula?
Non-venomous snakes and other non-venomous reptiles are allowed as pets with proper containment. Venomous species are prohibited.
What about miniature pigs?
Potbelly pigs may be allowed on lots of 20,000+ square feet with a conditional use permit. Contact Community Development at (805) 933-4214.
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