Lakewood, OH Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- LCO Sec. 505.12
- Fixed Pet Limit
- None - case-by-case nuisance review
- Kennel Setback
- 30 ft from others' dwellings (Sec. 505.11(c))
- Penalty
- Minor misdemeanor
Summary
Lakewood sets no flat numerical cap on dogs or cats per household. Instead, under Section 505.12 a court may limit the number of animals in a dwelling if it finds that an excessive number constitutes a nuisance.
In addition to the penalty provided in Sections 505.11 and this section, the court may upon proper evidence, limit the number of animals in any single-family dwelling, or any separate suite in a two-family dwelling, multi-family dwelling or apartment within the City should the court deem that an excessive number of animals harbored within such an area constitutes a nuisance. The terms 'dwelling' and 'suite', as used in this section, include the lot or parcel of land on which the house or building containing the suite is located and also all out-buildings located on such lot or parcel. No owner or keeper of such dogs or other animals shall fail to abate such nuisance by the permanent removal of such animals beyond City limits within ten days after service of such notice.
Full Breakdown
Lakewood Codified Ordinance Section 505.12 does not establish a fixed maximum number of dogs or cats per home. Instead, Section 505.12(c) authorizes the court, upon proper evidence and in addition to the penalties in Section 505.11, to limit the number of animals in any single-family dwelling, or any separate suite in a two-family, multi-family, or apartment dwelling, where the court deems that an excessive number of animals constitutes a nuisance. The terms 'dwelling' and 'suite' include the lot or parcel and all out-buildings. An owner served with notice must abate the nuisance by permanently removing the animals beyond City limits within ten days. Separate setback rules apply to kennels: under Section 505.11(c), no dog house, kennel, or pen for one or more dogs may be maintained nearer than thirty feet to any building used as a human dwelling by persons other than the dog's owner.
Violations & Fines
Violation of the nuisance provisions in Section 505.12 is a minor misdemeanor; failure to abate by removing animals within ten days of notice subjects the owner to penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs or cats can I own in Lakewood?
Where can I place a kennel or dog pen?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
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Pet Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cuyahoga County handle pet limits.