Bozeman, MT Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

The household limit is in section 8.02.050 of Chapter 8, Article 2. It applies to any person, group of persons in the same dwelling, or family who keeps, harbors, maintains or knowingly permits more than two cats or more than two dogs, each over six months of age. The definition of kennel in section 8.02.010 confirms the reach: it includes any noncommercial place where more than two dogs or two cats over six months are kept, whether for breeding or otherwise. Licensed veterinarian hospitals and animal shelters are excluded.

Applications go to the chief of police, who investigates the premises. Each kennel license is for a designated purpose and a specific number and type of cats and dogs, and it cannot be transferred to another person or place. The applicant must give written notice within 15 days of the application date, and before approval, to all owners of real property within 200 feet of the site, and to the city liaison for the InterNeighborhood Council and neighborhood associations. To approve, the chief must find that all listed animals hold current city pet licenses, that the site and its yards, fences and enclosures are adequate, that the use has no adverse effect on abutting properties or residents, and that any conditions are followed.

The fee is set by resolution of the city commission. The license expires on December 31 each year, the fee is cut by 50 percent for approvals between July 1 and December 31, and the application fee is nonrefundable. After a complaint and a finding of improper operation, nuisance conditions or a condition that would preclude a license, the chief can revoke a kennel license after a minimum of 72 hours' notice, and can allow up to 15 days to fix the problem. Decisions to approve, deny, revoke or reinstate can be appealed in writing to the city commission, whose decision is final and binding. Separately, section 8.02.010 lists as a nuisance any animal that is offensive or dangerous to public health, safety or welfare because of the number kept at one residence or inadequate facilities.