CDFW often receives inquiries about why certain exotic animals – allowed as pets in other states – are NOT allowed as pets in California. The most common examples are ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, gerbils, monkeys, and monk parakeets.
These animals are prohibited because they pose a threat to California native fish and wildlife, agriculture, public health or safety pursuant CA Fish & Game Code § 2118(opens in new tab). There are many concerns related to competition with native species, predation, and potential disease transmission when any non-native animal is introduced into the wild.
Legal possession of a restricted species may be allowed under a Restricted Species Permit issued pursuant Title 14 CCR Section 671(opens in new tab). CDFW is authorized to issue permits only to qualified individuals or institutions for limited purposes such as research, public exhibition, education, or shelter. Permits are not issued to import or possess any wild animal for pet purposes.
