California state laws

[scottman]

I just recently got the opportunity to move back to California sometime early next year and was wondering if id be able to keep my baby eastern cottonmouth when/if I do. I really don't want to get of him considering i haven't even had the little guy for a whole year yet. Can anyone help me out?
Thanks in advance.

[Starscream]

It shall be unlawful to import, transport, or possess alive animals restricted in subsection (c) below except under permit issued by the Department of Fish and Game. Permits may be issued by the department as specified herein and for purposes designated in Section 671.1 subject to the conditions and restrictions designated by the department. [...]
Restricted species include: [...]
(D) Family Viperidae - Adders and Vipers All species (D).

It is a member of the Viperidae family and considered a pit viper, although it looks like you should be able to apply for a permit. Maybe call someone to do with Fish and Game and ask what you need to do to get a permit to keep your lil guy?

Here's the web page I found this on, if you want to look it over yourself. http://www.bornfreeusa.org/b4a2_exot...state.php?s=ca

[scottman]

Thanks, I'm hoping thats up to date. Id be a little upset if i can't.

[SDA]

This link might help about local and state ordinances and if permits are required

http://www.ocregister.com/2013/06/21...-get-a-permit/

However ... here is a link to the restricted species list requiring a permit (last checked May 2017)

https://www.animallaw.info/administr...ossession-live

To quote

All species (D).

(7) Class Reptilia-Reptiles

(A) Order Crocodilia-Crocodiles, Caimans, Alligators and Gavials

All species (D).
(B) Family Chelyridae-Snapping Turtles
All species (D).
(C) Family Elapidae-Cobras, Coral Snakes, Mambas, Kraits, etc.
All species (D).

(D) Family Viperidae-Adders and Vipers

All species (D).

(E) Family Crotalidae-Pitvipers

All nonnnative species (D).
(F) Family Colubridae-Colubrids
1. Dispholidus typus (Boomslang) (D).
2. Genus Thelotornis (Bird, twig, or vine snakes) (D).
3. Genus Nerodia (watersnakes) (D).
(G) Family Helodermatidae

1. Heloderma suspectum suspectum (reticulate Gila monster) (D).

More links including fees!

https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Licensin...ricted-Species

Link to find a sales agent where you should be able to call about permits

https://www.ca.wildlifelicense.com/I...rch/FindOutlet



Most important is this one - Fish and Game number for asking questions

California Department of Fish and Wildlife - 916-928-2537 (Monday-Friday: 8:00am to 5:00pm, PST)