Exotic Pets: Ojai vs Santa Paula
How do exotic pets rules compare between Ojai, CA and Santa Paula, CA?
Santa Paula has fewer restrictions than Ojai.
Ojai, CA
Ventura County
Exotic animals regulated by CA Fish & Game Code and CDFW. Ferrets and hedgehogs illegal statewide (CA Code of Regulations §671). Ventura County Animal Services enforces.
View full Ojai 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 | Ojai | Santa Paula |
|---|---|---|
| Ferrets | Illegal statewide (CA Code Regs §671) | Illegal in California |
| Hedgehogs | Illegal statewide | - |
| Most Reptiles | Legal without permit | - |
| Enforcement | Ventura County Animal Services / CDFW | - |
| 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.
Ojai FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Ojai?
No. Ferrets are prohibited throughout California under Fish and Game Code Section 2118. This is a state law, not a local one, and there are no exemptions for pet ownership.
What exotic pets are legal in California?
Some exotic pets allowed with no permit include certain non-venomous reptiles, fish, and small rodents. Others like hedgehogs, ferrets, and primates are banned. Check with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for the current restricted species list.
Who handles exotic animal issues in Ojai?
Ventura County Animal Services at (805) 388-4341 handles domestic exotic animal complaints. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife handles wildlife issues. Call 911 if a dangerous exotic animal is loose.
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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