Exotic Pets: Newport Beach vs Orange
How do exotic pets rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Orange, CA?
Newport Beach and Orange have similar restriction levels.
Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations prohibiting most exotic pets. Ferrets, hedgehogs, and most wild or non-domesticated animals are illegal to keep as pets under state law, and the city does not grant local exceptions.
View full Newport Beach rules →Orange, CA
Orange County
The City of Orange prohibits keeping wild or exotic animals under OMC Section 6.04.060. Restricted species include those listed in California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 671, venomous reptiles, snakes over six feet, and animals designated as invasive by CDFW.
View full Orange rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newport Beach | Orange |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Code of Regulations Title 14, Sec 671 | - |
| Ferrets | Illegal in California | - |
| Hedgehogs | Illegal in California | - |
| Primates | Prohibited as pets | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Exotic Pets | - | Prohibited in city limits |
| Venomous Reptiles | - | Prohibited |
| Snake Length Limit | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Code Section | - | OMC §6.04.060 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Newport Beach?
No. Ferrets are illegal to keep as pets anywhere in California under Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, Section 671. Newport Beach does not grant exceptions to this state prohibition.
What exotic pets are legal in Newport Beach?
Most common domesticated pets are legal including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs. Many non-venomous reptiles like ball pythons and bearded dragons are also legal. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains the full list of restricted species.
Can I have a potbelly pig in Newport Beach?
Potbelly pigs may be restricted in residential zones under Newport Beach zoning regulations. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to determine if pigs are permitted on your property.
Orange FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Orange?
No. OMC Section 6.04.060 prohibits keeping wild or exotic animals including species restricted under California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 671.
Are snakes allowed in Orange?
Non-venomous snakes under six feet in length are permitted. Venomous reptiles and snakes over six feet are prohibited under OMC Section 6.04.060.
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