National City, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

The limits are in National City Municipal Code § 8.32.015(A), Restrictions on keeping certain animals, birds and reptiles, part of Chapter 8.32 (Keeping of Birds and Animals). Only animals over four months old count toward the caps.

Single-family homes: a maximum of three dogs and three cats may be kept on any parcel of property less than two acres in size that is occupied by a single-family residential dwelling. On a parcel greater than two acres occupied by a single-family residence, the limit rises to six dogs and three cats. Either way, the exterior area or areas where dogs are kept must be enclosed at all times by a barrier, fence or pen that meets the requirements of § 8.16.100.

Multifamily housing: a maximum of two dogs or two cats, or a combination not to exceed two, may be kept in any one dwelling unit within a mobile home park, multifamily dwelling, apartment or condominium complex, and only if the owner or condominium association regulations allow it. Section 8.32.015(C) confirms that the city allowances do not apply where a lease, restrictive covenant, zoning or other regulation prohibits the animals.

Cats have a parcel-wide cap of their own. Under § 8.32.015(A)(9), except as provided otherwise in the section, no more than three cats exceeding four months of age can be kept on any parcel of land within the city.

Exemptions: an owner who needs to exceed the limits for educational, conservation, religious or preservation purposes can apply for an animal permit from the city council or city manager. No permit issues unless the increase will not adversely affect public health and safety or be incompatible with neighboring uses. The annual fee comes from the National City fee schedule.

Businesses that board or breed animals are treated differently. Chapter 8.24 requires a commercial kennel or cattery to obtain a conditional use permit through the planning commission and renew its operating permit annually with the animal control officer.