Exotic Pets: Rancho Cucamonga vs San Bernardino
How do exotic pets rules compare between Rancho Cucamonga, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino have similar restriction levels.
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 →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 | Rancho Cucamonga | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| State Law | CA Fish and Game Code 2118 | - |
| Banned | Primates, big cats, wolves, venomous reptiles | - |
| Also Banned | Ferrets (CA statewide) | - |
| Allowed | Parrots, rabbits, non-venomous small snakes | - |
| Enforcement | IVHS and CDFW | CDFW with local support |
| Primary Rule | - | 14 CCR 671 |
| Banned Species | - | Ferrets, hedgehogs, big cats, primates |
| Permitted Common Pets | - | Dogs, cats, parrots, fish |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino 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