Sacramento, California — Local leaders are advancing a measure that would permit residents to keep four dogs per home rather than the longstanding cap of three. The proposal, now headed to the City Council, incorporates requirements for spaying or neutering to promote responsible ownership. Proponents see it as a step toward easing strains on the area’s animal shelter while modernizing city rules.[1][2]
Current Restrictions on Pets in Sacramento Homes
City code has long restricted households to no more than three dogs over four months old in any dwelling unit or adjacent yard. The same limit applies to swine permitted under related sections, with combinations of these animals not exceeding three mature individuals. Cats face a separate cap of seven over eight weeks old.[3][2]
These rules aim to balance pet ownership with neighborhood livability and public safety. Exceptions exist only for those authorized to run a kennel under planning codes. Enforcement helps curb nuisances like excessive noise or waste, though the limits have drawn calls for updates in recent years.
Key Details of the Proposed Ordinance
The amendment targets Section 9.44.370 of the city code, maintaining the baseline of three dogs but allowing a fourth under strict conditions. Qualifying dogs must be over four months old and either spayed or neutered. Alternatives include a valid unaltered license, a veterinarian’s certification deeming sterilization unsuitable due to health or age, or eligibility for a fee waiver.[1][2]
Swine limits stay at three, while cats remain capped at seven. The Animal Wellbeing Commission added a recommendation to mandate spay or neuter for cats as well. These changes clarify enforcement and align with practices emphasizing animal welfare…