Parrots are popular pets in California, but not all species are legal to own. California has strict laws regulating exotic pet ownership, aimed at protecting public health and safety as well as conservation of wild parrot populations. Understanding what parrot species are permitted can help ensure prospective owners follow the law.
Overview of California Exotic Pet Laws
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife oversees exotic pet regulations in the state. Under California Code of Regulations Title 14, it is illegal to import, transport, possess, or release alive animals deemed “detrimental to agriculture, native wildlife, the environment, or public health or safety.”
This restriction covers hundreds of animals, including all non-native birds. However, California Fish and Game Code section 671 provides an exception for some species through the Restricted Species Permit Program. Permits are available for certain parrots that pose minimal risks.
Parrot Species Prohibited Without Permit
It is illegal to own the following popular parrot species in California without a Restricted Species Permit:
- African grey parrot
- Amazon parrots
- Budgerigars
- Cockatiels
- Cockatoos
- Conures
- Eclectus
- Hawaiian parrots
- Lovebirds
- Macaws
- Parakeets
- Parrotlets
- Pionus
Possessing these parrots without proper permitting is punishable under California law. Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and jail time up to 6 months.
Permit Requirements
To legally own parrots listed above, you must obtain a Restricted Species Permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. General requirements include:
- Paying a permit application fee
- Passing a written statement of purpose
- Proving adequate caging facilities
- Meeting specific species requirements
- Agreeing to periodic site inspections
Permits stipulate conditions for housing, care, identification, record-keeping, transfer and transport of the animals. Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of proper husbandry for the species and preparation for issues like escaped birds. Permits must be renewed annually.
Exempt Parrot Species
The following parrot species are legal to own in California without a permit:
- Monk parakeets
- Parrotlets
- Peach-faced lovebirds
These small parrots are exempt from permit requirements under Section 671 as they pose minimal risk of harm to California ecology and agriculture. Note local jurisdictions may still prohibit ownership with local ordinances.
Banned Parrot Species
It is illegal to own the following parrot species in California, even with a permit:
- Hyacinth macaws
- Red-masked conures
- Red-throated parrots
- Vinaceous-breasted parrots
- Yellow-chevroned parakeets
- Yellow-headed parrots
- Yellow-naped parrots
- Any hybrids of these species
These parrots are considered a significant threat to California ecology, agriculture, or public safety if released according to risk assessments. Possession is punishable by law.
Purchasing Parrots Legally
To avoid violating California laws, prospective parrot owners should research breeders thoroughly and request documentation. Reputable breeders will provide copies of their current permits and CRFS Certificate of Veterinary Inspection showing legal acquisition.
Certain red flags could indicate illegal parrot trafficking, such as:
- No documentation
- Imported or wild-caught birds
- Hybrid species
- Prices substantially below market rate
Buying parrots under these conditions risks perpetuating the illegal trade and wild population declines. California buyers should verify the seller’s credentials and only purchase permitted species with proper paperwork.
Enforcement of Exotic Pet Laws
Several agencies enforce California’s exotic pet regulations:
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife – administers the Restricted Species Permit program and investigates illegal possession and trafficking
- California Highway Patrol – inspects shipments and transfers of restricted animals
- County and city animal control agencies – enforces local ownership bans
- US Fish & Wildlife Service – investigates violations of federal wildlife trafficking laws
These agencies often respond to tips from the public about illegal exotic pet activities. Penalties depend on the circumstances but commonly involve citations, confiscations, fines up to $10,000 and jail time up to 1 year.
How to Find Legal Parrots for Adoption in California
Adopting a rescue parrot is an excellent alternative to buying from breeders. Here are tips for finding legal adoptable parrots in California:
- Search parrot-specific rescues like Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue that take in permitted surrender parrots
- Browse adoptable parrots on Petfinder classifieds then verify with the rescue they have proper permits
- Check local humane society and animal control sites for parrot adoptions and permits
- Avoid online ads or individuals rehoming parrots without paperwork
- Ask to see relinquishment records and current housing permits before adopting
Although rules limit options compared to other states, following California’s laws allows responsible ownership of certain parrots. Perform due diligence when acquiring parrots to avoid contributing to inhumane and illegal trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally buy an African grey parrot in California?
No, it is illegal to purchase an African grey parrot in California without first obtaining a Restricted Species Permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. African greys are one of the parrot species that require a permit for private ownership.
What species of macaw can I own in California?
Most macaws require a permit to legally own in California, including blue and gold macaws, green-winged macaws, hyacinth macaws, military macaws, scarlet macaws, and more. However, hyacinth macaws are prohibited even with a permit due to their threat if released.
Can I own a cockatoo in California?
Yes, you can legally own cockatoos like Moluccan, umbrella, and Goffin’s cockatoos given you acquire the necessary Restricted Species Permit. Without the permit, possession of these cockatoos is prohibited.
Are parakeets allowed in California?
Most parakeets like budgies, Australian parakeets, and Pacific parakeets require a permit for private ownership in California. However, some species like monk parakeets and parrotlets are exempt from permitting requirements.
Can I own a Quaker parrot in California without a permit?
No, Quaker parrots fall under the umbrella of monk parakeets which require a Restricted Species Permit for possession in California. You must obtain the permit to legally own a Quaker parrot.
What paperwork should I get when purchasing a parrot in California?
Reputable California breeders should provide a copy of their current Restricted Species Permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as well as a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection showing legal acquisition and health clearance.
Can I register my unpermitted parrot in California?
No, California does not allow parrot owners to register illegal animals after acquisition. You must obtain the required permits before taking possession of covered parrot species in the state.
What are penalties for owning illegal parrots in California?
Penalties for possessing parrots illegally in California include citations, confiscations, fines up to $1,000 per bird and jail time up to 6 months. Harsher penalties apply for trafficking violations.
Where can I report illegal parrot selling in California?
You can report unlawful exotic pet activities like unpermitted parrot sales to your local animal control agency or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife CalTIP hotline at (888) 334-2258.
Summary
California strictly regulates private ownership of many popular parrot species to balance conservation, agriculture, and public interests. Prospective owners must research regulations and acquire proper permits before obtaining covered parrots in the state. Purchasing through reputable, compliant breeders and rescues ensures your new companion is legal to own.