§ 2121 Wild Animal Release Prohibition

Fish and Game Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law makes it illegal to intentionally let a wild animal you own or control run away unless you follow the official rules.

Key Takeaways

•You cannot intentionally free a wild animal you control.
•You must follow the commission's rules if you need to release one.
•Breaking this rule can lead to criminal charges.

Example

A zoo employee tries to open a tiger's cage and let the animal out without permission.

If the employee purposely frees the tiger or lets it escape without following the required procedures, they could be arrested for breaking this law.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 2121 Wild Animal Release Prohibition

No person having possession or control over any wild animal under this chapter shall intentionally free, or knowingly permit the escape, or release of such an animal, except in accordance with the regulations of the commission. (Amended by Stats. 2007, Ch. 285, Sec. 31. Effective January 1, 2008.)

Last verified: January 10, 2026

Key Terms

wild animal regulations of the commission

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Fish and Game Code. Section 2121.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

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Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References