Exotic Pets: Santa Monica vs South San Gabriel
How do exotic pets rules compare between Santa Monica, CA and South San Gabriel, CA?
Santa Monica and South San Gabriel have similar restriction levels.
Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.04.162 prohibits wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys without a permit from the Animal Control Officer. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are banned from City parks, beaches, the Pier, and the Third Street Promenade.
View full Santa Monica rules →South San Gabriel, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 10, Section 10.28.060 requires a license to keep wild animals in unincorporated areas. Many exotic species are prohibited entirely. California Fish and Game Code further restricts ownership of non-native wildlife.
View full South San Gabriel rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Monica | South San Gabriel |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Wild animals, reptiles, monkeys | - |
| Banned in Parks | Snakes, primates, arachnids | - |
| Exemptions | Events, film permits, wildlife | - |
| Code | SMMC §4.04.162 | §10.28.060 |
| License | - | Required from DACC |
| Prohibited | - | Big cats, bears, primates |
| State Law | - | Fish & Game §2118 |
| Fine | - | Up to $500 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Santa Monica?
Wild animals, venomous reptiles, and monkeys require a permit from the Animal Control Officer. Most exotic species are also restricted under California law (14 CCR §671). Standard domestic pets are allowed.
Can I bring my pet snake to the beach in Santa Monica?
No. All snakes, reptiles, non-human primates, arachnids, and birds are prohibited from City parks, beaches, the Pier, Ocean Front Walk, and the Third Street Promenade under Section 4.04.162.
South San Gabriel FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in unincorporated LA County?
Some exotic animals may be kept with a license from LA County Animal Care and Control. Big cats, bears, primates, and venomous reptiles are entirely prohibited. California Fish and Game also regulates exotic species.
What exotic animals are banned in LA County?
Prohibited species include big cats, bears, primates, wolves, venomous reptiles, and other species deemed dangerous. The Department of Animal Care and Control maintains the restricted list.
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