Lower Paxton, PA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Pet keeping is an accessory use under § 203-313(M) of the Lower Paxton Township zoning chapter, and § 203-313(M)(1) makes it a permitted by right accessory use in all districts. The limits sit inside that permission.

Dog and cat cap: a maximum combined total of five dogs and cats is permitted for the residents of each dwelling unit on their residential premises. The count is per dwelling unit and combines both species. The limit applies only to dogs or cats over six months of age, so younger animals are outside the count. Any greater number of dogs and/or cats needs approval as a kennel. Section 203-202 defines a kennel as a use of land and structures in which four or more domestic animals or pets six months or older are bred, trained, and/or boarded for compensation for more than 12 consecutive hours, and it excludes animal day cares and grooming facilities where pets are not on site for more than 12 consecutive hours.

Fowl: pigeons, ducks, geese, and similar fowl cannot be kept on a lot of less than one acre. If the total weight of the fowl exceeds 500 pounds, the requirements for raising of livestock or poultry apply instead.

Nuisance and waste: no use can involve keeping animals in a way that creates a serious nuisance, including noise or odor, a health hazard, or a public safety hazard. Owners must collect and properly dispose of fecal matter. No dangerous animals can be kept outdoors in a residential district except in a secure, completely enclosed cage or fenced area of sufficient height, or on a leash under full control of the owner.

Which animals count as pets: only domesticated animals compatible with residential character qualify, and the code lists dogs, cats, rabbits, gerbils, fish, and lizards as examples. Bears, wolves, wolf-dog hybrids, venomous snakes, monkeys, apes, constrictor snakes, and exotic wildlife need Zoning Hearing Board special exception approval, and exotic wildlife also needs a state possession permit.