Exotic Pets: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do exotic pets rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Ontario and San Bernardino 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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
California Fish and Game Code and Title 14 CCR 671 prohibit most exotic pets including large cats, primates, and many reptiles. San Bernardino defers to state rules and county permitting.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA F and G 2118 and Title 14 Section 671 | - |
| Prohibited | Ferrets hedgehogs sugar gliders | - |
| Big Cats and Bears | Permit only | - |
| Ontario Role | Animal Services seizure authority | - |
| Permitted | Most parrots and common reptiles | - |
| Primary Rule | - | 14 CCR 671 |
| Banned Species | - | Ferrets, hedgehogs, big cats, primates |
| Permitted Common Pets | - | Dogs, cats, parrots, fish |
| Enforcement | - | CDFW with local support |
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I have a ferret in San Bernardino?
No. Ferrets are prohibited statewide under California Code of Regulations Title 14 section 671.
What about a hedgehog?
Hedgehogs are also prohibited under state law; the local code cannot override this.
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