Milpitas, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Milpitas caps household animals under Municipal Code Section V-210-7 (Maximum Number of Animals). Section V-210-7.02 allows dogs and/or cats over four months of age in a number not to exceed a combined total of four (4), and no household may keep more than one unspayed (unsterilized) female dog or cat. The San Jose Animal Care and Services licensing materials, which administer licensing for Milpitas, summarize the Milpitas limit as a maximum of four pets (dogs/cats) with no more than one unaltered pet. The code also addresses other animals: a maximum of 20 birds is allowed if caged and kept indoors, and a maximum of 10 small animals (such as mice, rabbits, or hamsters) is allowed if caged and kept indoors; terrarium and aquarium animals are allowed if confined. Authorized volunteers of City-permitted animal adoption organizations may keep up to a combined total of seven (7) dogs and/or cats (Section V-210-7.02). Section V-210-7.01 makes it unlawful to keep animals on residentially zoned lots within 300 feet of other residential buildings except as the section allows. Where a resident wants animals beyond these limits, Section V-210-7.03 allows applying for a permit, with a nonrefundable application fee (Section V-210-7.04) and possible denial or revocation under stated criteria.