Lima, OH Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Cat license
- Not required
- Governing rule
- Lima CO 618.09
- At-large offense
- Minor misdemeanor
- Owner liability
- All damage caused
- Numeric cat cap
- None specified
Summary
Lima has no separate cat-licensing law, but cats are covered by the general animal regulations: they may not be kept so as to create offensive odors or unsanitary conditions, and any animal running at large on another's premises is a minor misdemeanor.
No person shall keep or harbor any animal or fowl in the City so as to create noxious or offensive odors or unsanitary conditions which are a menace to the health, comfort or safety of the public.
Full Breakdown
Lima does not license cats and sets no cat-specific numeric limit. Cats fall under Lima CO 618.09 (General Animal Regulations), which bars keeping any animal or fowl so as to create noxious or offensive odors or unsanitary conditions that menace public health, comfort, or safety. An owner, keeper, or harborer of any animal found running at large upon any public way, unenclosed land, or the premises of another is guilty of a minor misdemeanor and is liable for all damage the animal causes. So while cats need not be leashed like dogs, letting them roam onto neighbors' property or creating sanitation problems can bring enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Cats kept so as to create odor or sanitary nuisances are abatable under 618.09; an animal at large on another's premises is a minor misdemeanor with owner liability for damages (618.99).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cats have to be licensed in Lima?
Can I let my cat roam outdoors?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lima
Compare Lima to another location·View the Ohio animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.