California Laws on Wolves

Since the 1920s, wolves have been virtually nonexistent in the California wilderness. Despite a hospitable environment, wolves generally seem to have been content living in states to the north and east. Also, federal agencies have not acted to reintroduce wolves to California, as has been done with various animal species in other national parks. State officials have had to deal with domesticated wolves, though, as people seek permission to keep the creatures as pets.

  1. Hybrid Pets

    • Crossbreeding, whether the result of natural or assisted means, has produced wolf-dog hybrids. Some owners cherish these sleek and protective animals as family pets. Breeding, though, may produce characteristics not favorable to domestication. Predatory instincts and aggressive behavior may be curbed as a result of professional training, but owners must be vigilant in working to control their animals. Controversy swirls around the suitability of these animals as pets, and state and local governments have struggled to craft laws pertaining specifically to hybrids.

    California Hybrid Law

    • California Code 671.1(2)(K2) acknowledges wolf hybrids and allows possession of the animals without permit if born after Feb. 4, 1988. The hybrid law does allow local jurisdictions to have their own prohibitions or licensing requirements. In addition, 671.1 establishes the owner must keep transportation records, health certificates and copies of permits. Also, the animal owner may be asked to show proof of financial responsibility in case the wolf or hybrid must be located, captured and kept by state wildlife officials.

    California Wild Animal Law

    • Wild wolves are treated differently than hybrid pets. California Code 671 declares possession of wild animals acquired after January 1992 to be unlawful. The California Department of Fish and Game oversees such animal issues. A resident may apply for permission to transport and keep wild animals under strict supervision. For example, individuals must file notice with the state if they intend to transport the animal for any reason, listing among other items both the game tag number and the highway to be used during travel.

    Fines and Penalties

    • Direct violation of California law regarding the keeping or transporting of wild animals will result in significant penalties. California Code 2125(a) states individuals will be subject to fines of up to $10,000 for each violation of the state's animal rules. Also, criminal prosecution is a possibility; a misdemeanor conviction may result in a jail sentence of up to six months and a fine of $1,000.