Charlotte, NC Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Section 3-103(a) makes it unlawful to own, keep custody of, or care for three or more dogs or cats, in any combination, aged four months or older, that are frequently outside on the premises, without a special permit from the bureau. To issue that permit, subsection (b) requires the bureau manager or a designee to make five findings: that noise from the animals will not interfere with an abutting occupant's peaceful enjoyment of their property, that odor or unsanitary conditions will not do the same, that three or more dog runs or similar structures are not visible from an abutting property in a residential zone, that there is no evidence the animals pose a health or disease risk to neighbors, and that the animals do not otherwise interfere with neighbors' peaceful use of their property.

A denial must be explained in writing, and the bureau may attach specific conditions and charge a reasonable administrative fee for reviewing and issuing the permit. 00, and the permit stays valid only as long as the holder keeps to its terms; any material change, such as more animals, a different breed, or new structures that could violate the five standards, automatically voids the permit and the owner must secure a new one or be in violation. The bureau manager may revoke the permit at any time for a standards violation, a term violation, misrepresentation, or a similar reason, and must state the basis for revocation in writing.