Dublin, CA Animal Ordinances: Animal Hoarding (2026)

The City of Dublin does not publish a standalone 'animal hoarding' ordinance. At the local level, the situation is constrained by the City's residential pet limits: a household may keep no more than two dogs and two cats without an Animal Fanciers Permit, and keeping more animals, or livestock, as accessory to a residence requires that permit, administered through the Alameda County Sheriff's Office and the East County Animal Shelter (925-803-7040). Animal control services, including investigation of neglect and welfare complaints, run through the East County Animal Shelter under the City's contract with the Sheriff's Office. The more serious tool against hoarding is California state law. California Penal Code Section 597 prohibits animal cruelty and neglect, including depriving an animal of necessary food, water, shelter, or protection from the weather, and failing to provide proper care. While Section 597 does not fix a specific number of animals that constitutes hoarding, keeping animals in numbers that compromise their health and safety through overcrowding can support a charge. A violation may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, with potential jail or prison time and substantial fines. Residents who suspect animal hoarding or neglect in Dublin should report it to the East County Animal Shelter / Alameda County animal control, which can investigate, seize animals when warranted, and refer cases for criminal prosecution under state law.