Boise does not impose a strict numerical pet limit for dogs and cats in residential zones. Owners with 4 or more dogs over 6 months old must apply for a kennel permit under BCC Title 5. Nuisance and sanitation rules apply regardless of count.
Boise does not cap the number of cats per household. For dogs, keeping 4 or more dogs over 6 months of age triggers a kennel permit requirement under BCC Title 5. Kennel permits require inspection, proof of vaccination, rabies tags for each dog, and neighbor notification. Hobby kennels (non-commercial) face lighter scrutiny than breeding or boarding operations. Nuisance ordinances regarding odor, noise, and sanitation apply regardless of numerical count: a single dog causing repeated complaints can trigger enforcement, while 10 well-managed cats would not. All dogs over 4 months must be licensed annually through the Idaho Humane Society at 10 dollars (altered) or 30 dollars (unaltered).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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