Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Trigger: Unhealthful or unsanitary conditions
Who investigates: Animal Control Manager
Remedy: Court-ordered removal if unresolved
Fine: $75 to $300, Sec. 23.33

Summary

Cedar Rapids makes it unlawful to harbor or maintain animals in conditions that create unhealthful or unsanitary conditions for people or animals on the premises, letting the Animal Control Manager investigate and pursue court-ordered removal.

(e)It shall be unlawful to harbor or maintain animals in such a condition as to create unhealthful or unsanitary conditions for humans or animals occupying the premises. If such conditions exist, the Manager or designee is authorized to make an investigation. After notice and meeting with the person or persons occupying or maintaining the residence or premises, or the persons harboring or maintaining the animals, the Manager may recommend animals be removed from the residence or premises to remedy or correct the conditions.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 24).

Full Breakdown

Section 23.05(e) targets hoarding-style conditions rather than a hard cap on animal numbers: it is unlawful to harbor or maintain animals so as to create unhealthful or unsanitary conditions for the humans or animals on the premises. When such conditions are reported, the Animal Control Manager or a designee investigates, meets with the person harboring the animals, and may recommend the animals be removed to correct the conditions. If the person fails to remedy the conditions, the city can pursue enforcement in Linn County court to compel removal or correction.

Violations & Fines

General Sec. 23.05 penalties apply: $75 for a first offense, $150 for a second, $300 for a third or later offense within a calendar year (Sec. 23.33(a)); a court can separately order the animals removed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a numeric pet limit in Cedar Rapids?

No, Sec. 23.05(e) regulates conditions, not a headcount; any number of animals can trigger enforcement if keeping them creates unhealthful or unsanitary conditions.

What happens if hoarding conditions aren't fixed?

The Animal Control Manager can pursue court action in Linn County to enforce removal or correction of the conditions (Sec. 23.05(e)).

Sources & Official References

[1]Cedar Rapids Municipal Code § 23.05(e)

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All Cedar Rapids rules

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