Exotic Pets: Newport Beach vs Santa Ana
How do exotic pets rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Newport Beach and Santa Ana 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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana restricts the keeping of wild, exotic, dangerous, or non-domestic animals under SAMC Chapter 5. Permits are required for any exotic or wild animal, and many species are prohibited outright under both city and California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newport Beach | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Code of Regulations Title 14, Sec 671 | 14 CCR §671 |
| Ferrets | Illegal in California | - |
| Hedgehogs | Illegal in California | - |
| Primates | Prohibited as pets | - |
| OC Animal Care | (714) 935-6848 | - |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for any exotic/wild animal |
| Prohibited Species | - | Primates, large cats, bears, wolves |
| Code Section | - | SAMC Chapter 5 |
| Enforcement | - | OC Animal Care & CDFW |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I keep a pet monkey in Santa Ana?
No. Primates are prohibited as pets under California law (14 CCR §671). Private ownership permits are generally not issued.
What exotic pets are allowed in Santa Ana?
Animals not listed as restricted under California law may be kept with proper permits. Common allowed exotics include certain reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. Check with OC Animal Care for specific species.
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