No. Monkeys are perfectly lawful as pets in nearby Arizona and Nevada, but they are illegal in California. Monkeys are prohibited due to the harm they can cause to Californian wildlife and agricultural production. A permit is required to own a monkey outside a zoo.
The Golden State has several extremely rigid statutes regarding which pets are legal to own and carry. The state has valid justifications for continuing to keep some well-known pets outside the state. All gorillas, chimps, orangutans, bonobos, and gibbons are considered “wildlife” in California and are extensively controlled by the state to ensure their own well-being and safety as well as public health and safety.
In addition to federal permits and licenses, all breeders, dealers, and exhibitors in California should procure a state license in order to buy, transport, or acquire any ape. To buy apes, 2 different state permits are frequently expected (research facilities need only obtain one).
Every request is reviewed by state officials to guarantee that the shipment of an ape would not jeopardize public health and safety. All shipped apes are heavily watched and quarantined for at least 30 days in authorized establishments, during which period the animals are tested and evaluated to verify that they comply with the state’s health standards.
Popular Animals in California That Are Illegal
Although not every pet is considered illegal in the Golden State; howbeit, there are a few unusual animals that are currently prohibited.
If you have an exotic pet or have actually relocated from a state with more relaxed pet regulations, now would be super ideal to find out which creatures are considered lawful in California and which ones are not. Below are some widely known animals that are illegal in California;
Chinese Hamsters
Although Chinese Hamsters make very good first pets, they are not allowed in California. The fundamental reason for the prohibition is the potential harm to wildlife. Chinese Hamsters present quite a risk since they enjoy California’s climate. The notion is that escaped Chinese Hamsters might establish colonies that could harm crop production.
Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are among the many puzzlers on the roster. Even though these adorable little quill balls can theoretically perforate your skin and disperse a few diseases, this is not the primary reason why they are prohibited. They, just like all the other animals in the Order Insectivora (such as shares and moles), are prohibited due to the harm they can cause to wildlife if they escape.
Quaker Parakeets
The Quaker Parakeet is another name to take seriously on the list. Since these parakeets have the ability to flee, form a flock, and destabilize native wildlife, they have been prohibited in California.
Ferrets
Ferrets are undoubtedly the most influential prohibited pet in California. While they are legal in almost every other state across the country, they have yet to receive a welcoming reception in California. If you’re wondering why these adorable creatures with long necks aren’t permitted, it is because they represent a risk to local fauna if they break free.
Consequences for Keeping an Illegal Animal in California
In addition to understanding which creatures you can and cannot keep as pets in California, it’s also a good idea to understand the consequences if you’re nabbed with one of the state’s prohibited animals.
The highest punishments involve fines ranging from $500 to $10,000. You may also be compelled to pay for the animal’s removal and storage. Unlawful possession of an exotic or prohibited animal is liable to be punished by a maximum of six months in prison and a penalty of close to $1,000.
What’s more probable is that the animal would be removed from you and returned to the wild, or perhaps even put down.
Given the number of living creatures legitimate in the state, and the risk of financial penalties as well as a legal headache if you keep an unauthorized animal, it’s preferred to comply with the law. It benefits you, the state, and, in numerous instances, the animal.