Columbus, GA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Under Columbus, Georgia Code of Ordinances § 5-15, keeping six or more dogs and/or cats over six months old, as pets, for recreation, or for exhibition and noncommercial breeding, triggers a private/hobby kennel permit issued by the director of animal services. Permits run January 1 through December 31, must be renewed by February 28, and cost $100 for inspection. The location must comply with zoning and hold a certificate of occupancy. A nuisance complaint under § 5-10(d) can trigger inspection and revocation after notice; a revoked permit-holder has ten days to reduce animal numbers or humanely dispose of the excess, with appeal available to the animal control advisory board.