Kent, WA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Base limit
- 3 small domesticated animals per dwelling unit
- Larger-lot exception
- More than 3 allowed on 20,000+ sq ft lots
- Potbelly pig cap
- 1 per address, regardless of other count
- Pig size limit
- Max 22 inches / 150 pounds
- Enclosure setback
- 10 feet from neighboring residential lot
- Violation
- Public nuisance, civil infraction (KCC 8.03.070/.080)
Summary
Kent limits households to three small domesticated animals. KCC 15.08.070(A) allows "up to three (3) small domesticated animals" per dwelling unit or business as an accessory use in every zone, with only one miniature potbelly pig allowed regardless of the cap, and a higher count permitted only on lots of 20,000 square feet or more.
A. Small domesticated animals. Up to three (3) small domesticated animals may be kept accessory to each business establishment or dwelling unit on a lot, except as follows: 1. In no case is more than one (1) miniature potbelly pig allowed per business establishment or dwelling unit. 2. More than three (3) small domesticated animals are permitted on lots of at least twenty thousand (20,000) square feet, subject to the provisions of Ch. 8.03 KCC. 3. In no case shall a structure that restrains or houses small domesticated animals, such as a kennel or other accessory structure, be located closer than ten (10) feet from any other residential lot.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 4542, passed June 16, 2026).
Full Breakdown
070 sets the citywide pet-limit rule. 030(F) as "any dog, cat, rabbit, or other animal of similar size and character," and specifically includes Vietnamese, Chinese, or Asian potbelly pigs. 03 KCC. Potbelly pigs kept under this section may not exceed 22 inches at the shoulder or 150 pounds; an oversized pig "is not allowed within the city" at all. Any structure that houses or restrains the animals, such as a kennel, run, or hutch, must sit at least 10 feet from any neighboring residential lot line.
Separately, large domesticated animals such as horses or goats require at least 20,000 square feet and are capped at one animal per 10,000 square feet of lot area. 070(2), unless the animals are kept at a licensed pet shop, veterinary clinic, or animal shelter for business rather than personal purposes. 010, investigates complaints, and violations are cited into Kent Municipal Court.
Violations & Fines
Keeping more than three small domesticated animals on a lot under 20,000 square feet is a declared public nuisance under KCC 8.03.070(2), enforceable as a civil infraction under KCC 8.03.080 and filed with Kent Municipal Court. King County animal control officers or Kent police may issue the infraction; a licensed pet shop, vet clinic, or shelter is exempt for business-purpose animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs or cats can I keep at my Kent home?
Can I keep a pet potbelly pig in Kent along with my three-pet limit?
What happens if I keep more pets than Kent allows?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Kent
Compare Kent to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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Pet Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle pet limits.