Exotic Pets: Ontario vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do exotic pets rules compare between Ontario, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario defers to California state law on exotic pets. CA Fish and Game Code and Title 14 Section 671 ban most wild species including big cats, bears, ferrets, hedgehogs, and sugar gliders without a permit.
View full Ontario rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Rancho Cucamonga follows California Fish and Game Code section 2118, which bans exotic animals without a permit. Primates, big cats, venomous reptiles, and constrictors are prohibited.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA F and G 2118 and Title 14 Section 671 | CA Fish and Game Code 2118 |
| Prohibited | Ferrets hedgehogs sugar gliders | - |
| Big Cats and Bears | Permit only | - |
| Ontario Role | Animal Services seizure authority | - |
| Permitted | Most parrots and common reptiles | - |
| Banned | - | Primates, big cats, wolves, venomous reptiles |
| Also Banned | - | Ferrets (CA statewide) |
| Allowed | - | Parrots, rabbits, non-venomous small snakes |
| Enforcement | - | IVHS and CDFW |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Are ferrets legal in Ontario?
No. Ferrets are illegal to own as pets throughout California under Title 14 Section 671. Ontario Animal Services can seize them.
Can I own a sugar glider or hedgehog?
No. Both are on California's restricted-species list and cannot be kept as pets without a rare state permit.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Rancho Cucamonga?
No. Ferrets are illegal statewide in California under Fish and Game rules, regardless of city policy. Rancho Cucamonga animal control enforces the state ban.
What about a pet monkey or big cat?
Prohibited. Nonhuman primates and large cats are restricted wildlife under Title 14 CCR 671, requiring a state permit that is not issued for private pet ownership.
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