Modesto, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- MMC § 10-3.202 (zoning) and § 5-4.506 (licensing)
- Dog limit
- 2 per dwelling unit, age 5 months or older
- Cat limit
- 3 per dwelling unit, age 3 months or older
- Annual dog license (altered)
- $12
- Annual dog license (unaltered)
- $150
- License required at
- 4 months of age
- Above limits
- Conditional use permit required
Summary
Modesto's zoning ordinance limits a residential dwelling unit to two dogs (5+ months old) and three cats (3+ months old). Larger numbers, exotic animals, or kennels require a conditional use permit. All dogs four months or older must be licensed through Stanislaus Animal Services.
A maximum of two (2) dogs, five (5) months or older, per dwelling unit. A maximum of three (3) cats, three (3) months or older, per dwelling unit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 71).
Full Breakdown
Modesto Municipal Code Title 10 (Zoning Regulations), Chapter 3 (Land Use Regulations), § 10-3.202 governs the number of animals and fowl permitted per dwelling unit in residential zones. The section allows a maximum of two (2) dogs five (5) months or older per dwelling unit and a maximum of three (3) cats three (3) months or older per dwelling unit. Additional or exotic animals require a conditional use permit from the Planning Commission. Separately, Modesto Municipal Code Title 5, Chapter 4 (Sanitation and Health - Animals) requires every dog four months or older kept in the city to be licensed; § 5-4.506 sets annual license fees of $12 for spayed/neutered dogs and $150 for unaltered dogs, with senior discounts. The Stanislaus Animal Services Agency administers licensing under a joint powers agreement with the City. Note: Modesto's two-dog limit is significantly stricter than typical California cities (most allow 3-4 dogs).
Violations & Fines
Keeping more dogs or cats than allowed by § 10-3.202 without a conditional use permit is a zoning violation enforced by Modesto Code Enforcement. The City Attorney's office prosecutes municipal code violations as infractions or misdemeanors. Unlicensed dogs may be cited at $251 by SASA. Code enforcement may require removal of the excess animals or pursue civil/administrative remedies under MMC Title 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs can I have in Modesto?
How many cats are allowed?
Do I have to license my dog in Modesto?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Modesto
California rules heatmap·Compare Modesto to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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