Pet Permit Rules to Undergo Review

Because they are quiet, docile animals, pot-bellied pigs will probably be welcome in Newport Beach without a permit. Other pets, though, may not get the same reception.

The City Council on Tuesday will talk about permits for animals, wild and domestic, and discuss guidelines for new-pet permits that should make it easier to own snakes and lizards that the state Department of Fish and Game allow.

Newport Beach officials requested the ordinance, saying they were spending too much time issuing permits for pets that, though not furry and considered cute, are far less likely to cause problems.

For example, under the proposed ordinance iguana and boa constrictor owners would have to get pet permits from the state but not from the city.

Animal Control Officer Eric Metz said many exotic animals are reptiles that spend their days and nights in cages and don’t make any noise at all.

Likewise, the miniature hogs from Vietnam, which have become popular as pets in Newport Beach, don’t bark or bite, he said, so they shouldn’t need a permit from the city.

The council will meet at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 3300 W. Newport Blvd. Information: (714) 644-3309.