Exotic Pets: Vacaville vs Vallejo
How do exotic pets rules compare between Vacaville, CA and Vallejo, CA?
Vacaville has fewer restrictions than Vallejo.
Vacaville, CA
Solano County
Vacaville Municipal Code Chapter 6.04 prohibits wild species from running at large or being pastured/staked in the City. Possession of restricted species (large cats, monkeys, venomous snakes, alligators, ferrets) is controlled primarily by California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 671 and the California Department of Fish & Wildlife, which requires a Restricted Species Permit. VMC Chapter 6.16 (Dangerous Animals) reinforces the prohibition on possessing any animal another jurisdiction has deemed dangerous, vicious, or a threat to safety.
View full Vacaville rules →Vallejo, CA
Solano County
Vallejo restricts ownership of exotic and wild animals. Many species require special permits or are prohibited entirely for public safety.
View full Vallejo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Vacaville | Vallejo |
|---|---|---|
| Primary State Rule | Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 14 Sec. 671 | - |
| Ferrets | Illegal statewide | - |
| Big Cats / Primates | CDFW Restricted Species Permit only | - |
| Local Code | VMC Ch. 6.04 + 6.16 | - |
| Common Reptiles | Allowed (ball python, corn snake) | - |
| Permits | CDFW (916-651-5004) | Required for some species |
| Large Cats | - | Generally prohibited |
| Primates | - | Generally prohibited |
| Insurance | - | May be required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Vacaville FAQ
Can I own a ferret in Vacaville?
No. Ferrets are illegal as pets throughout California under California Code of Regulations Title 14 Section 671. This is a statewide rule that Vacaville and the rest of the state enforce.
Are pet snakes legal in Vacaville?
Common non-native species like ball pythons and corn snakes are legal. Most native California snakes and all venomous species are restricted under CCR Title 14 Section 671 and require a Restricted Species Permit from the California Department of Fish & Wildlife.
What about a serval, monkey, or big cat?
These are restricted species under CCR Title 14 Section 671. Personal pet ownership is generally not allowed; only zoos, research institutions, and licensed exhibitors with CDFW Restricted Species Permits may possess them in California.
Vallejo FAQ
Can I keep a pet hedgehog or ferret?
It depends on Vallejo local ordinances and state law. Some jurisdictions allow these with permits while others prohibit them.
What happens if my exotic pet escapes?
You are liable for any damages. Report escaped exotic animals to Vallejo animal control immediately. Criminal charges may apply.
Compare other topics
See how Vacaville and Vallejo 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