Phoenix City Code Chapter 8 requires every cat over three months old to carry a current rabies vaccination. Cats are not subject to a leash law, but owners remain liable when roaming cats damage property, harass wildlife, or create nuisance conditions for neighbors.
Phoenix Code Chapter 8 follows Maricopa County Animal Care and Control rules: cats older than three months must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian and re-vaccinated on the schedule shown on the certificate. Phoenix imposes no leash or licensing requirement for cats, but allowing a cat to repeatedly enter a neighbor's yard, defecate there, or stalk birds at feeders can be cited as a nuisance under Chapter 8. Trap-neuter-return is supported through MCACC and partner rescues, and feral colonies should be ear-tipped and managed by a registered caretaker.
Unvaccinated cats found at large can be impounded by Maricopa County, with reclaim fees and a mandatory rabies shot before release. Repeat nuisance complaints can lead to civil citations, abatement orders, and small-claims liability for damage.
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