LBMC Chapter 6.20 requires dogs and cats over six months to be spayed or neutered, with narrow exceptions for licensed breeders, show animals, and certified service dogs.
Long Beach adopted mandatory spay-neuter in 2009 to reduce shelter intake. Under LBMC section 6.20.020, every dog or cat older than six months residing in the city must be sterilized unless the owner holds an unaltered animal permit. Permits are limited to AKC-registered show dogs, working livestock guardians, breeders licensed by the state, certified service or assistance animals, and animals whose veterinarian certifies sterilization would endanger health. Permits cost about $100 annually per animal and require liability insurance. LBACS verifies status at licensing renewal.
Violations are infractions the first time at $100, jumping to $500 misdemeanor citations on repeat offenses, plus mandatory sterilization at owner expense before the animal is released from impound.
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