Buffalo, NY Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Dog limit (single/double family or commercial)
- 3 dogs per premises
- Dog limit (multi-unit dwelling, 3+ units)
- 1 dog per household
- Kennel threshold
- More than 3 dogs over 4 months old
- Age threshold
- Dogs over 4 months old count toward the limit
- Cat limit
- Not addressed in this section
Summary
Buffalo limits dog ownership to 3 dogs per single- or double-family home or commercial property. In multi-unit dwellings with 3 or more units, the limit is 1 dog per household unit. Having more than 3 dogs classifies the premises as a kennel.
The maximum allowable number of dogs on a premises that is classified as a single- or double-family residence or any commercial property shall be three for the entire premises. Any premises harboring more than three dogs over the age of four months is classified and defined as a kennel. For premises that are classified as multiple dwellings, those properties containing three or more units, the maximum allowable number of dogs on the premises shall be one per household. Any violations of this section shall be punishable pursuant to Chapter 137.
Full Breakdown
The limit applies to dogs over four months of age. Properties classified as multiple dwellings (three or more units) carry a stricter limit of one dog per household unit. Any premises keeping more than three dogs over four months is classified as a kennel and subject to kennel regulations. These limits apply to dogs only: no equivalent maximum for cats appears in this article.
Violations & Fines
Violations punishable pursuant to Chapter 137 (general penalty provisions). No specific fine amount stated in this section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have 4 dogs in my single-family home?
I live in an apartment building: what is my dog limit?
Does the 3-dog limit include puppies?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York animal ordinances overview
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