Exotic Pets: Rohnert Park vs Sonoma
How do exotic pets rules compare between Rohnert Park, CA and Sonoma, CA?
Rohnert Park, CA
Sonoma County
No data available yet for Rohnert Park.
Sonoma, CA
Sonoma County
Keeping exotic or wild animals in the City of Sonoma is prohibited without proof of proper state approvals under Sonoma Municipal Code §8.06.120. The municipal code adopts the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's restricted species list — possession of restricted species requires a permit issued under Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118.
View full Sonoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rohnert Park | Sonoma |
|---|---|---|
| Code section (city) | - | SMC §8.06.120 |
| State restricted list | - | Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118; 14 CCR §671 |
| Permit issuer | - | California Dept. of Fish & Wildlife |
| Common prohibited species | - | Big cats, primates, wolves, ferrets, monk parakeets |
| Criminal exposure | - | Up to 6 months jail / $1,000 (state) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Rohnert Park FAQ
No FAQs available.
Sonoma FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Sonoma?
No. Ferrets are on California's restricted species list under 14 CCR §671 and possession is prohibited statewide without a special permit, which is not available to private pet owners.
What counts as an 'exotic animal' in Sonoma?
SMC 8.02.040 defines exotic animal as any wild animal designated by CDFW — this aligns with the restricted species list in 14 CCR §671 under Cal. Fish & Game Code §2118.
Are reptiles like snakes and lizards allowed?
Most common pet reptiles (corn snakes, leopard geckos, etc.) are not restricted, but venomous and certain non-native species are prohibited under §2118 and 14 CCR §671. Check the CDFW list before acquiring any reptile.
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