First off: No animals are collectors item.... Bottle caps and stamps are collectors item, but not breathing, living souls.
Second of all: When I moved in, I told my managers that I owned snakes, what kind I have, how big they can get, etc, etc and they didn't care. they let their five year old come over and hang out with my Ball Python all the time. Either they are okay with it, and don't fine you, as they didn't with me, but if you hide it from them like you did, they aren't going to be as kind about it :/
Your options:
1. Pay $700
2. Move out
3. Get rid of your reptiles. Sorry to hear that you're having this issue, buddy.