Exotic Pets: Ojai vs Simi Valley
How do exotic pets rules compare between Ojai, CA and Simi Valley, CA?
Ojai and Simi Valley have similar restriction levels.
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 →Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Exotic and wild animal ownership in Simi Valley is regulated by both state law and the municipal code. California Fish and Game Code restricts many species, and Simi Valley may impose additional restrictions on keeping non-domestic animals in residential areas.
View full Simi Valley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ojai | Simi Valley |
|---|---|---|
| Ferrets | Illegal statewide (CA Code Regs §671) | Illegal in California |
| Hedgehogs | Illegal statewide | - |
| Most Reptiles | Legal without permit | - |
| Enforcement | Ventura County Animal Services / CDFW | - |
| State Regulation | - | CA Fish & Game Code, Title 14 CCR 671 |
| Venomous Animals | - | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Animal Services | - | (805) 388-4341 |
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.
Simi Valley FAQ
Can I keep a ferret in Simi Valley?
No, ferrets are illegal to own as pets anywhere in California under Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. This is a statewide ban, not a local ordinance.
What exotic pets are legal in Simi Valley?
Non-venomous reptiles, certain birds, and small mammals not on the restricted species list may be kept. Check California Title 14 CCR Section 671 for the full restricted list.
Do I need a permit for an exotic pet?
Some allowed exotic species may require permits. Contact Ventura County Animal Services at (805) 388-4341 or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for requirements.
Compare other topics
See how Ojai and Simi Valley compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool