Marion County, OR Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- CUP trigger
- More than 10 mammals
- Age counted
- Over four months old
- Zones
- RS and AR zones
- Kennel
- Four or more dogs/cats/pets
- Rural code
- Ch. 17.126.020 / 17.110.300
Summary
In Marion County's Rural Zone Code, a conditional use permit is required in the RS and AR zones if there are more than 10 mammals over four months old. Keeping four or more dogs, cats or pets for sale, breeding or boarding counts as a kennel.
… a conditional use permit is required in the RS and AR zones if there are more than 10 mammals over four months old. No birds or furbearing animals, other than pets, and no livestock or beekeeping are permitted in RS zones.
Full Breakdown
Marion County does not cap ordinary household pets, but density triggers permits. Rural Zone Code Chapter 17.126.020 requires a conditional use permit in the Single Family Residential (RS) and Acreage Residential (AR) zones when a property has more than 10 mammals over four months old. Separately, Ch. 17.110.300 (rural) and 16.49.140 (urban) define a 'kennel' as keeping four or more dogs, cats or pets over four months old for sale, lease, breeding, training, racing or boarding, which requires kennel approval. The 'pet' definition excludes animals raised for food, fur or monetary gain. City limits are governed by city codes.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding 10 mammals without a conditional use permit, or running an unpermitted kennel, is a zoning violation enforced by Marion County Code Enforcement (503-373-4333).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pets can I have without a permit?
When do I need a kennel license?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marion County
Compare Marion County to another location·View the Oregon animal ordinances overview
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