Is it legal to own a monkey in California?
The short answer
No. Every monkey and ape is a restricted species in California under 14 CCR §671. No pet permits exist, no grandfather clause applies, and enforcement is active. This has been California's position for decades.
What California law says
14 CCR §671 restricts all nonhuman primates under a blanket listing. CDFW issues permits only to qualified institutions — research facilities, accredited exhibitors, educational programs, and shelters. Private individuals cannot qualify for pet possession regardless of species size or experience.
Which agency regulates monkeys in California
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is the authority for monkey (Nonhuman primates) possession in California.
Is there a permit for pet monkeys?
No. There is no permit pathway that allows private pet ownership. CDFW issues restricted species permits only for research, public exhibition, education, or sheltering — never for personal pets.
Penalties for owning a monkey illegally
Misdemeanor possession: fines commonly $500–$10,000 plus costs (including care and removal of the animal), up to 6 months in jail, and seizure. CDFW actively enforces, including at borders and via online-sale investigations.
Local city and county rules
No local rule can override the statewide restriction — California's list controls everywhere in the state.
Frequently asked questions
Are finger monkeys or marmosets legal in California?
No — the restriction covers all nonhuman primates without exception for size or species.
Can a USDA exhibitor license make a monkey legal in California?
No. A federal USDA license doesn't override state law — you'd also need a CDFW restricted species permit, which isn't issued for personal possession.
Sources
More animals in California
- Is it legal to own a raccoon in California?
- Is it legal to own a serval in California?
- Is it legal to own a fennec fox in California?
See all animals on the exotic pet laws in California page, or compare every state on the pet monkey laws by state page.
Last verified 2026-07-02 against the cited primary sources. This is a research directory, not legal advice — confirm current rules with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) and your local animal-control authority before acquiring any animal.