Exotic Pets: Tulare vs Visalia
How do exotic pets rules compare between Tulare, CA and Visalia, CA?
Tulare and Visalia have similar restriction levels.
Tulare, CA
Tulare County
Exotic pet ownership in Tulare is governed primarily by California Code of Regulations Title 14 § 671, which lists hundreds of 'Restricted Species' that cannot be possessed without a permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). CDFW does not issue permits for private pet possession. Tulare Municipal Code § 6.12.050 incorporates the state definition by reference: an 'exotic animal' is any wild animal the California Fish and Game Commission has declared prohibited.
View full Tulare rules →Visalia, CA
Tulare County
Visalia and California state law restrict ownership of many exotic animals. Permits are required for certain species and many dangerous wild animals are prohibited.
View full Visalia rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Tulare | Visalia |
|---|---|---|
| Controlling law | 14 CCR § 671 (CA Restricted Species list) | - |
| Local definition | Tulare Mun. Code § 6.12.050 — adopts state Fish & Game definition | - |
| Permit eligibility | Research, public exhibition, education only — NOT private pets | - |
| Common bans | Ferrets, hedgehogs, primates, big cats, wolves, most reptiles | - |
| State penalty | Misdemeanor + up to $1,000 fine + confiscation (Fish & Game Code § 2125) | - |
| Ferrets | - | Illegal in CA |
| Primates | - | Prohibited |
| State Agency | - | CA Dept Fish & Wildlife |
| Some Reptiles | - | May be legal |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Tulare FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Tulare?
No. Ferrets are restricted under 14 CCR § 671. They are legal in 48 states but banned in California due to concern about feral populations preying on native ground-nesting birds. CDFW does not issue private-possession permits.
What about a serval or savannah cat?
Servals are 14 CCR § 671 restricted species — illegal as pets. Savannah cats (serval × domestic cat hybrids) are restricted under CDFW rules unless they are at least F5 generation or later, but CDFW interpretation has been strict — verify before purchasing.
Does Tulare have its own list?
No — § 6.12.050 incorporates the state Fish & Game Commission list by reference. There is no separate city list of allowed/banned exotics.
Visalia FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Visalia?
No. Ferrets are illegal throughout California regardless of local ordinances.
What exotic pets are legal in Visalia?
Some reptiles, birds, and small mammals may be legal. Check with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for specific species.
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