Why Are Hedgehogs Illegal Pets in California? The Controversy Explained

If you’ve ever wanted to own a hedgehog, you may have asked yourself whether they are legal pets in California. Unfortunately, the answer is no - hedgehogs are illegal to keep as pets in California because they are considered restricted species that can carry foot and mouth disease and pose other risks. The state has strict wildlife importation laws in place to protect the public and the environment.

Despite the law, many people who love hedgehogs are working to get the ban lifted due to a better understanding of the risks and proper care. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the research and controversy surrounding the ban on hedgehogs as pets in California, including the biological reasons for the ban, the legal issues, and public opinion. This will help you better understand how California is currently regulating exotic pets and what changes may be on the horizon.

California's Laws and Regulations on Exotic Pet Ownership

California's laws and regulations on exotic pet ownership, including hedgehogs, are stringent. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, some animals are listed as restricted species because they are considered to be a threat to the state's native wildlife, agriculture, and public health and safety. Hedgehogs fall into this category and are listed as a restricted species under California law.

Permits for restricted species are only given for specific reasons, such as research, education or public exhibition, and not for private ownership. As noted by KE&G Attorneys, California's regulation of exotic animals is based on several factors, including public safety, environmental conservation, disease prevention, and protection of endangered species. The state is worried about non-native animals being released into the wild and disrupting the local ecosystem and the spread of diseases.

This is a reflection of the state's commitment to protecting its natural habitats and the well-being of its residents from the potential dangers of exotic animals that are not native to the area. Knowing this legal background is important for understanding the specific limitations on owning hedgehogs and other animals that are considered restricted species.

How to Get a Hedgehog Permit in California

Although hedgehogs are illegal to keep as pets in California, the state does have a permit application process for restricted species, which is detailed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The permit requirements include proving a minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience with the restricted species, which is listed in the California Code of Regulations. Applicants must also pay application and inspection fees, submit an animal inventory, and have an emergency action plan.

That said, the Department of Fish and Wildlife can refuse permits if the intended use for the animals is not clearly and strongly described. In general, permits are not given for exotic pets like hedgehogs because the state views them as wild animals that can threaten the local ecosystem and public safety.

Hedgehog Ownership Laws in Other U.S. States

In addition to California, there are several other U.S. states with laws or rules in place that govern the ownership of hedgehogs as pets. For example, Georgia, Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and parts of New York City have banned or restricted hedgehog ownership due to concerns about disease transmission, including the potential for certain species of hedgehogs to carry foot and mouth disease, according to Exotic Nutrition.

On the other hand, some states have recently become more permissive. For example, according to Hamor Hollow Hedgehogs, Arizona, Maine, and Washington D.C. have legalized or unrestricted the ownership of hedgehogs as pets in the past few years. Meanwhile, states like New Jersey and Wisconsin may require permits or certificates of veterinary inspection for hedgehog ownership.

As noted by FindLaw, the laws regarding hedgehog ownership are in a state of constant flux, with several states currently in the process of reevaluating their regulations. This state of change is indicative of the ongoing controversy and lack of uniformity in the regulation of exotic pets throughout the U.S.

What Happens If You Get Caught With a Hedgehog in California?

In California, it is illegal to own a hedgehog without a permit due to the state’s restricted species laws. According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, penalties for violating these laws include fines, the seizure of the hedgehog, and in some cases, criminal charges.

California’s laws are strictly enforced to protect the state’s ecosystems and public health from the threat of invasive species. As KE&G Attorneys explains, the harsh penalties show the state’s dedication to protecting its wildlife.

While there is some evidence that the laws are not always enforced, the Born Free USA warns that the consequences of getting caught with an illegal hedgehog can be severe. This makes it important for anyone thinking about getting a hedgehog in California to be aware of what could happen if they are caught.

Loopholes and Special Cases for Hedgehog Ownership

Although hedgehogs are banned as pets in California, there are a few loopholes and special cases that may make it possible to legally own one. According to Hedgehog Central, hedgehogs can't survive and reproduce in the wild in California, which would prevent them from becoming an invasive species. In addition, some reports indicate that hedgehogs are less likely to carry diseases than other animals that are legal to own in the state.

Some groups, such as zoos, schools, or research labs, may be able to get permits to keep hedgehogs, as specified by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. As with other laws and regulations, there may be opportunities for hedgehog lovers to push for changes or exceptions to the law, as noted by Heavenly Hedgies.

However, the Steering Marine Services points out that the ownership of exotic animals in California is heavily regulated and requires the proper permits and licenses from the state. The ongoing controversy and uncertainty surrounding the issue of hedgehog ownership in California will likely continue to influence the situation in the future.

Conclusion: What's Next for Hedgehog Owners in California

Although hedgehogs are currently illegal to own as pets in California, laws regarding exotic pet ownership are always changing. As new information comes to light and our knowledge of how to best care for hedgehogs grows, there may be opportunities for the law to be amended or for exceptions to be made. Advocates and hedgehog lovers are still working to get the ban lifted, arguing that the risks are manageable and the benefits are numerous.

In the end, California's laws are a compromise between protecting the public, the environment, and personal choice. The ongoing conversation and education on both sides of the issue will determine what happens with hedgehog ownership in the state.