Birmingham caps the number of dogs and cats per household under Title 4 to control nuisance complaints; exceeding the limit requires a multi-pet or kennel license issued through Animal Services.
Birmingham Code Title 4 sets a household cap on dogs and cats kept at a single residence. Households exceeding the cap must apply for a multi-animal permit or commercial kennel license, which requires inspection by Birmingham Animal Services and a sanitation review. Permits can be denied if the property has prior nuisance, barking, or waste violations. Foster homes registered with approved rescues may receive temporary exemptions. The ordinance works with Title 11 (Health) sanitation rules so chronic odor or rodent issues become enforcement triggers regardless of the headcount.
Notice-of-violation gives owners time to rehome animals or apply for a permit; failure to comply leads to municipal fines, possible impoundment, and revocation of any existing animal license.
Birmingham, AL
Birmingham does not have breed-specific legislation. No dog breeds are banned. Alabama state law does not preempt local BSL, but Birmingham has not enacted any.
Birmingham, AL
Birmingham requires dogs to be on a leash or under restraint when off the owner's property. Dogs running at large may be impounded by animal control.
See how Birmingham's pet limits rules stack up against other locations.
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