Santa Barbara, CA Animal Ordinances: Cat Rules (2026)

The City of Santa Barbara regulates cats mainly through licensing under Municipal Code Title 6. Any person who owns, keeps, or has custody or control of one or more unaltered cats in the City must obtain a cat license from the City and pay the required fee for each unaltered cat over four months of age. This requirement targets unaltered cats specifically, reflecting the City's interest in reducing unwanted litters and supporting spay/neuter; license fees are set by City Council resolution, with reduced fees available upon veterinary proof of sterilization. Unlike dogs, cats are not subject to a leash requirement in the City, and there is no curfew or roaming ban specific to cats in the general animal regulations. Owners remain responsible under the City's nuisance provisions for ensuring their animals do not damage or foul others' property. Stray and surrendered cats are handled through the Santa Barbara County Animal Shelter (5473 Overpass Road), to which the City contracts sheltering and adoption services; stray animals are typically held for a redemption period before adoption. Residents who find stray or feral cats, or who manage community-cat colonies, should coordinate with the County shelter and local rescue organizations. For exotic cats (large or wild felines), state restricted-species law under Fish and Game Code 2118 applies, not the ordinary cat-licensing rules.